animal friendly cruise

Traveling With Your Pets contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy  for more information.

15 Best Dog Friendly Cruises Available in 2024

Table of Contents

Cruises are a great way to unwind for a sunny vacation! And what better way to enjoy a trip on the water than with your pup by your side?

I travel with my dog, Theo, often, and I am always interested in which cruises allow pets. I recently took my first cruise to Alaska and had to leave him behind. I vowed never again to cruise without my pup!

To make it easier for pet owners, I have compiled a list of dog friendly cruises that make it convenient to vacation with your pup.

1. Cunard’s Queen Mary II

When you think “dog friendly cruise,” you’re most likely thinking of Cunard’s Queen Mary II . This is the ONLY traditional-style cruise where you can bring your dog along with you on an extended journey — in this case, it’s a transatlantic cruise starting in New York City.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: the Queen Mary II is a luxury cruise, and the price tag reflects that. If you want to bring Bones (or Bella) with you, you’ll need to for upwards of $1,500 and book two (or more) years in advance.

What does a fancy cruise ticket for your dog get?

A luxury kennel with cozy bedding, regular feedings (food bowl provided), and a daily walk on Deck 12 with a lamp post and a bright red fire hydrant — so your best buddy can choose his bathroom of choice. Cunard even provides food for your pup, though if they’re on a special diet, you’ll need to provide enough food for the trip.

Dogs on the Queen Mary II cannot hang out with you in your cabin. They will be in the care of the kennel master for the duration of the trip. 

But there are several times per day you can drop by to hang out and visit with them. 

You can also get extra fancy and order treats from room service, like chicken and steak, delivered to their kennels.

In the case of an emergency, the kennel even has its own safety protocol. The pets have their own life jackets and muster stations. It’s important to note, though, that they do not have a vet on board.

Most people looking for pet-friendly cruise ships that allow dogs, this is their #1 choice!

2. Tallink Silja Line

If you’re not quite looking for a luxury transatlantic cruise but still want an overnight cruise ship that allows dogs, the Tallink Silja Line offers overnight cruises around the Baltic Sea.

They have pet-friendly cruises between Stockholm, Helsinki, and Tallinn, and you can take an overnight trip in either direction.

To bring your furry companion along for the ride, you’ll need to book one of the pet-friendly cabins available on most ships. 

Most ships have 10 pet-friendly cabins, but the Baltic Queen has 18. The pet cabins are located around the ship, offering a variety of price points. There’s a pet recreation space, and you can’t leave your pet alone in the cabin except for short periods of time (like going to the store or grabbing a bite to eat). 

Each cabin can hold up to three pets, but dangerous breeds cannot come. And the pups aren’t allowed on the beds.

It’s important to note that because you will travel between countries, your pet must meet all entry requirements. This includes an EU pet passport (which requires a health check by a certified vet) and a deworming 5 days before travel (if headed to Finland). 

Check all the updated requirements before booking (and boarding), as they can change.

3. DFDS Mini Cruise

Have you ever been in Europe looking up cruises you can take your dog on? If you’re around the Baltics, then DFDS Mini Cruises are for you !

These are essentially fancy ferries that allow you to go on a nice tour across the water to see some famous European cities around the Baltic Sea. The best part is that they’re 100% pet-friendly!

These (often) two-day cruises allow you to travel between Newcastle and Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Oslo, and cross the Baltic Sea on a ship with a pet friendly cabin. 

Prices are in the €200 to €300 range and require a €75 cleaning fee — but to book them, you’ll need to contact the company directly. 

Not every cabin is pet friendly (i.e., the shared cabins do not allow dogs), and only a certain number are allotted for each trip.

Pet friendly cabins feature:

• Space for up to 4 guests
• Up to 2 medium-sized dogs
• Vinyl flooring
• Ensuite bathroom and shower

While your pup cannot hang out with you outside your room, there are also dedicated areas on board where you can stretch your legs — but you’ll need a pass to access them. 

Also, if you’re booking a cruise that doesn’t have pet-friendly cabins, it’s worth calling and asking if pet transport is available. Transporting them separately from one cabin to another is sometimes an option.

4. DIY Stena Line Cruise

Stena Line provides ferries around Europe, and some of their cruises allow pets. Depending on the cruise, you have a few options for traveling with your best bud:

• Book them a kennel (you’ll want to pre-book because they fill up fast).
• Keep them inside your car (check the route to see if it’s allowed).
• Book a pet friendly cabin.

This isn’t quite as luxurious as the Queen Mary II, but there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water with your best bud and check out a few great destinations. Stena Lines is one of Europe’s largest ferry providers, providing routes to:

• The Netherlands
• Great Britain

It’s important to note that while these mini cruises are pet friendly, your best bud is not allowed to roam around in public areas . Dogs must be kept on a leash and muzzled outside the cabin, while those with cats must ensure they’re in their carrier.

The price of these pet friendly cruises depends on the route and how you plan to travel. 

Traveling in a cabin can cost you a few hundred Euros, but the experience is well worth it. Who wants to leave their furry family members behind?

Le Boat’s self-driving cruises are perfect for the whole family, including your four-legged buddy. 

Dogs are welcome aboard ALL their boats, though only two at a time. You also need to pay a cleaning fee of £55 per pup.

Your pup will LOVE being out on the water, exploring somewhere new every day. 

Plus, Le Boat focuses on routes that are dog friendly, so no matter where you go, you can bring them along. Some of their best pup friendly destinations include:

• The River Thames – tons of dog friendly pubs and great walking paths
• The Caledonian Canal – unmatched Scottish scenery
• Canal du Midi – Great nature stops and hiking
• The River Shannon – more dog friendly pubs and gorgeous gardens
• Mecklenburg and Brandenburg – gorgeous German woods

It’s important to note that if you want to travel with your dog to countries in the EU, you’ll need to meet the entry requirements. The UK also has its own requirements, so you’ll need to meet them for re-entry, but make sure to check official sources so you’re up to date.

6. 1AVisa Reisen

The perfect water getaway for you and your four legged friends is a 1AVista Reisen . They set up unique, dog-focused cruises that journey through Europe. Their stops include gorgeous cities in Holland, Germany, and Austria.

The best part of their cruises is that your best bud can be right by your side. These cruises include pack walks, socializing, and dog access to all parts of the ship. Your pup will find fresh water throughout the boat, treats at the front desk, and a cozy cabin to curl up at night. 

There’s even a dog trainer on board who shares tips and tricks!

But there are some restrictions with 1AVisa Reisen cruises. For instance, certain breeds are not permitted on board, and your pup must meet the entry requirements for each country you visit.

7. Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruises

Visiting San Francisco with your pet? 

If you want to take a scenic tour around San Francisco Bay without leaving your cat/dog in the hotel room (how boring!), this is the tour for you.

Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruises offers beautiful scenic tours around San Francisco’s iconic bridges, waterfronts, and even Alcatraz Island. These 60-minute cruises will give you a dynamic view of the city, and as your pet remains leashed or in their carrier, they are welcome onboard.

However, not all cruises allow dogs (or pets in general), so you’ll want to double-check before you book your tickets. 

You should also ensure that a cruise with other dogs is appropriate for your pet (not all love it).

8. Mercury’s Canine Cruise

If you want a chance to ogle over the Chicago sceneries from a comfy spot aboard a ferry, Mercury’s Canine Cruise is for you. 

You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city with your furry friend by your side.

All dogs are welcome on the canine cruise, although they must be on a leash, comfortable with other dogs, and well-behaved throughout the journey. 

If so, you can sit back, relax, explore the Chicago River, and cruise around Lake Michigan in style. There is even a live narrator throughout the journey. 

These Canine cruises include:

• Onboard water bowls (for pups)
• Bar and snack service (for humans)
• Discounted parking

Dog ticket prices cost $8, and they are free to hang out on your lap, a seat, or sit on the deck. 

Plus, if you’re in the area during the first three weekends of October, you might consider checking out one of their Howl-O-Ween Canine Cruise options. These often include pumpkin dog treats and prizes for the best doggie costume.

9. Scenic Cruise St. Augustine

If you’re hanging around St. Augustine, you might want to consider a scenic cruise aboard the Victory III.

This breathtaking dog friendly cruise is narrated by the Captain and offers an opportunity for you and your pup to hang out together. It’s a fantastic way to check out the historical landmarks and points of interest around St. Augustine. 

But this seasonal cruise is only open seasonally, so plan ahead!

This sightseeing cruise is a truly excellent way for you and your best bud to check out the beautiful Florida coastline and see some cool things.

10. Cruises on the Bay (Watermark Journey)

Watermark Journey allows you to cruise around the bay in Annapolis, MD, and you can bring your pup along for the journey. 

Leashed dogs are welcome on many Watermark Journey cruises, except for a few, which include:

• Fireworks Cruises
• Blue Angles
• Thunderbird Cruises
• Festival Cruises (like cruises to festivals)
• Live Music Cruises (honestly, this makes sense because of the frequent loud noises)

You’ll simply need to make sure that your dog is leashed and well-behaved. The different cruise options vary by pricing, and pets ride for free!

11. Dog Gone Sailing Charters

Dog Gone Sailing Charters offers private cruises in Province Town, MA, tailored for people traveling with their dogs. 

If you choose one of their chartered cruises, you don’t have to leave your furry family members behind while sailing around Cape Cod Bay.

You can choose from several dog friendly cruises, like whale-watching trips, sunrise and sunset sails, and shrimp sails. Dogs of all sizes are welcome, and there is no additional fee for them.  

Also, your dog is completely safe because all charter boats have doggy lifejackets on board.  

Because these are chartered cruises, they could cost you more (depending on how many people are in your group. For example, a sunset or sunrise cruise is $45 per person, but you can rent the entire boat for $180. 

12. Hy-line Cruises

Properly leashed pets (or those in their carriers) are welcome aboard Hy-line Cruises in Hyannis, MA . The only exception is the Captain’s View section of the Grey Lady IV. 

Best of all, there’s no additional fee for bringing your pup on board! They just can’t get on the furniture!

There are a few different tours to pick from, including:

• Around the Sound
• To/from the Vineyard
• To/from Nantucket

If you and the family are planning to visit the Cape Cod region with your dog, this is a great option to add to your itinerary! 

13. Acadian Sightseeing And Nature Cruise

Headed to the Windy City with your pup? 

The Acadian Sightseeing and Nature Cruise of Frenchman Bay is something that you can do together! It’s a fun way to get outdoors, explore the local wildlife, and spend quality time with your pet.

These two-hour cruises are fully narrated and allow you to see amazing wildlife. Depending on the time of year, you’ll see eagles, migrating birds, seals, and porpoises. You’ll also pass some of the most impressive summer mansions in the area and Egg Rock Lighthouse. 

There is a heated cabin on board, but you’ll still want to dress warmly and make sure your pup has a sweater to throw on in case it’s extra windy on the water! 

14. Chicago Seadog Cruises

Chicago Seadog Cruises allows leashed, friendly dogs on board so your best bud can join you while enjoying the lakefront and architectural beauty of the Windy City.

You’ll need to make sure that you purchase your tickets in advance. But don’t worry, pups can ride for free. 

The cruises depart from the Navy Pier, and they offer a variety of dog friendly specific events annually. Make sure that you check in advance to be sure that your pup can get a ticket.

How to Save Money Booking Cruises

Looking to save on cruise bookings?

I use Cruise Direct to find cheap cruises for sale, as low as $25/night!

Go here and check out what’s on sale right now.

What is a “pet-friendly cruise”?

A pet friendly cruise is a cruise that allows pets (not simply service dogs) onboard. The Queen Mary 2 is the only traditional cruise that meets this criteria. However, a few mini-cruises and ferries in Europe/USA also have pet-friendly cabins.

Can you take Service Dogs on a cruise?

Many cruise companies allow service dogs to join their human counterparts on cruises. But you need to alert the cruise line as far in advance as possible. This allows them to prepare to have your pup on board and tell you what documentation they need.

Cruises that Allow Service Dogs

Royal caribbean.

While Royal Caribbean does not allow pet dogs on board (like most cruises), they do allow trained service dogs.

You’ll need to notify their Access Department no less than 30 days before boarding so they can arrange a relief station for your bud. You aren’t required to provide “evidence” that your dog is a working service dog, but it does help.

While Royal Caribbean provides a relief area, you are responsible for pretty much everything else. It’s your responsibility to:

• Provide food for your dog.
• Ensure care and control while moving about the ship.
• Make arrangements for supervised care if you are leaving the ship at a port.
• Take care of all the paperwork required for their entry into different countries.

Service dogs are allowed to attend all public areas, including dining venues, and must be leashed or harnessed at all times. 

Due to health regulations, service dogs are NOT allowed to go into pools or other on-board water facilities.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises also allows trained, working service dogs to join you on vacation. However, they do not allow pets still in training, like emotional support animals. 

When you book your trip, you must email the Access Department as soon as possible so they can provide additional service, set up a relief station for your pup, and share any necessary paperwork for the stops along the journey. 

But this is where the assistance ends. 

It’s your responsibility to carry all documentation on your person at all times (not in your baggage), including an up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate. Likewise, you will be responsible for obtaining any required entry paperwork for your dog BEFORE you board for any countries you plan to attend.

Finally, you must always have your dog in your care and keep them leashed or harnessed in all public areas. 

Norwegian Cruises

While Norwegian Cruises doesn’t accept pet dogs (including emotional support dogs), you can bring trained service dogs aboard. You’ll need to book at least two weeks in advance to give the dog an opportunity for them to prepare to host your dog.

The cruise line will provide a sandbox relief station, but everything else is on you. 

You’ll need to provide an up-to-date rabies vaccination and likely a USDA/international health certificate. You’re responsible for supplying your pet with food, medications, and a lifejacket.

Make sure you contact Norwegian Cruise’s Access Desk to get help when you book. This gives you the best chance to determine any additional requirements for your specific cruise. 

Disney Cruise Lines

Disney Cruise Lines also welcomes trained service animals on board. However, they must remain well-behaved, on a leash, and under your control at all times.

You are responsible for caring for your animal on a Disney Cruise, meaning that you can’t leave them unattended in the room or allow them into the wet play areas. 

Cruise staff are not allowed to take control of your dog either, if you need to leave them on the ship while you attend port, you’ll need to make other arrangements.

Also, not all port excursions will allow service dogs. You’ll also need to obtain import permits for the countries you visit and provide them to Disney Cruise Line Special Services before your sail date. 

It’s also strongly encouraged that you contact their Special Services as soon as you book your cruise to get a head start on getting the paperwork in order.

Can Emotional Support Dogs Go on Cruises?

Unless you’ve booked a ticket for the Cunard’s Queen Mary II or something else on this list that’s Pet friendly, then the answer is most likely no. Emotional support dogs cannot go on traditional cruises because they do not have the same rights as service dogs. 

Should I Take My Dog or Cat on a Cruise?

Just because there are pet friendly cruises doesn’t mean you should bring them. Many dogs and cats actually don’t do particularly well on the water . Travel isn’t for every pet, so you’ll want to ensure that yours has some boating experience before bringing them on a cruise. 

Can I take my dog on a cruise with me?

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of cruises that allow dogs, and most traditional cruise ships rarely allow you to bring pets on board. The only exception is the Queen Mary II . However, many cruises do allow trained service animals on board!

Does Royal Caribbean allow dogs?

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean does not allow pets (including dogs) on their cruises. They only allow fully-trained service dogs onboard and they must always be on a leash or under your control.

What cruise line allows animals?

Cunard’s Queen Mary II is the only traditional cruise line that allows pets, particularly dogs, on board. Their ship has kennels that allow you to bring your dog along so that they get to enjoy a luxury experience, too!

Do they have cruises for pets?

There are no cruises specifically for pets. However, there are a few on-water experiences that allow pets, including: 

• Cunard’s Queen Mary Cruise 
• Tallink Silja Line Baltic Cruises
• DFDS Mini Cruises

Are small dogs allowed on cruise ships?

Most cruise ships do not allow small dogs on board unless they’re service animals, with the Queen Mary 2 being the exception. Instead, you should book a mini cruise like this one by DFDS !

How much does it cost to take a dog on a cruise?

The only traditional cruise that allows dogs is the Queen Mary 2. Considering it’s a luxury vessel, you’re looking to spend between $800 and $1,000. 

Can I take my dog on a transatlantic cruise?

Yes, there is one transatlantic cruise ship that you can take your dog on. It’s called Queen Mary II. These Cunard dog friendly cruises offer a luxury kennel for your dog, and tickets sell out more than a year in advance! 

Can you take your dog on a cruise to Hawaii?

There are no cruises to Hawaii that allow pet dogs on board (that we know of). However, it is possible to bring your service dog with you. 

Can you take a dog on a Viking cruise?

Viking does not allow pets on board — dogs, cats, or otherwise. However, you may be able to make arrangements to bring a service dog on board with enough notice. 

Where does a service dog go to the bathroom on a cruise ship?

Passengers with service dogs can request that the cruise provide a doggy relief box. These are usually filled with mulch or sand and available in a designated service area. 

Can I bring my dog on a Carnival cruise?

Carnival does not allow pets on board. However, they do allow trained service dogs to assist their humans. 

Can I bring my dog on a Princess cruise?

Princess does not allow pets on board, including dogs. However, you may be able to bring service dogs if you provide the cruise line with enough notice and get approval! 

Wrap Up: Best Dog Friendly Cruises

If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a cruise with your dog, you’re definitely not alone! It sounds like so much fun and seems less stressful than flying with your dog. 

Unfortunately, there are only a few options around the world where it’s possible, and the only traditional cruise option (which is what I assume you’re hoping for) is Cunard’s Queen Mary II cruise. 

This Cunard transatlantic cruise from New York to Southampton is a wonderful experience that checks all the boxes, including a totally pet friendly experience! The only catch is that it’s a luxury cruise (i.e., expensive), and you have to reserve your spot at least one year in advance. 

But there are a few mini cruise options, such as the Tallink Silja Line’s cruises around the Baltic or this San Francisco Bay Cruise by Blue & Gold Fleet. 

I hope you have a great time sailing around the world with your pup! Don’t forget to check out my Dog Travel Checklist to make sure you have everything you need for the journey! 

Read More Travel with Dogs Tips!

• 7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets For Dogs
• How to get a Dog Passport (Expert Guide)
• Dog Travel Guide
• Dog Travel Checklist: What to Bring When Traveling with a Dog
• Flying With a Large Dog in Cabin: How to Guide
• West Paw Toppl Review: How to Use It for Tough Chewers
• Muttluks Review: Fleece-Lined Dog Boots That Stay On!
• Moving Abroad with Pets: 15 Expat Tips
• Pet Travel Quiz: Find Out Where to Go With your Pet
• Can I Buy a Plane Ticket For My Dog? (17 Dog-Flying Tips)
• Ultimate Guide To Flying With A Puppy
• 17 Best Hiking Boots for Dogs: Ultimate Guide

Dog Travel Planning Guide

🐶 How do you travel with a dog?

You can road trip, go camping, fly (depending on your dog’s size), go for day trips, and even live in an RV or motorhome with your dog! I’ve done all of the above with my dog, Theo.

✈️ How to travel with a dog by plane?

Check the airline requirements, if you’re flying with a large dog you’ll need to book far ahead, get a travel crate or carrier, and make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations. And don’t forget to bring along a leash, collapsible dish, and plenty of treats! ( Read more )

🚗 How to travel with a dog in a car?

Get a seatbelt or car-friendly crate, a seat protector, and a few toys to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Bring along items like a leash, pee pads, treats, collapsible bowl, and some calming treats for anxious dogs. Take frequent potty breaks (I recommend every 2 hours minimum).

🧳 What should I pack in my dog travel bag?

I always pack a collapsible bowl, back up leash, 50ft long leash, Toppl food toy, plenty of dog food, and a few toys for my pup when we go on our travels. It’s important to have all the essentials packed before you leave home since it can be difficult to find pet-friendly stores in some locations. ( Read more )

📝 What paperwork do I need to travel with a dog?

The paperwork you need will depend on where you’re going. You will always need your dog’s veterinary records and their vaccine status. You may also need an international health certificate, titre test, and even a spay/neuter certificate.

🐾 What is the best travel dog crate?

This collapsible crate is great for local travel and road trips. For plane travel, I recommend this hard crate for large breeds and this carrier for small breeds.

📍 What is the best way to travel with a dog?

It depends! The best way to travel will depend on you and your dog. Small dogs will have an easier time with plane travel. Large breeds are better for long term trips to minimize plane time, or road trips.

🛌 Best dog travel mat?

This non-slip, water-proof, easy to wash travel mat is my go to!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?

To find cheap flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🏨  What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?

To find cheap hotels, I recommend  Booking.com .

Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!

🚗  What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?

To find cheap rental cars, I recommend  Discover Cars .

🚗  What’s the best site to find tours?

To find epic tours, I recommend  Viator .

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Traveling With Your Pets. She and her golden retriever, Theo, have been to 3 countries, on dozens of road trips, and explored many cities across North America. Nina has been a full time traveler since 2017 before getting Theo, but hasn't let having a dog chain her to one spot. Now she helps thousands of people plan their pet-friendly holidays around the world.

Similar Posts

Do Pets Need Insurance To Fly? 2024 Guide

Are you wondering, “Do pets need insurance to fly?” No one likes to leave their pet behind while on…

19 Best Dog Friendly Beaches in California

Looking for the best dog friendly beaches in California? I’ve got you covered.  The Golden State has some of…

7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets For Dogs 2024

Are you looking for the best travel sickness tablets for dogs? You are in the right place! Traveling with…

How to get a Dog Passport in 2024 (Expert Guide)

Wondering about how to get a dog passport? You’re in the right place! Leaving your dog behind is one…

Is Hobby Lobby Dog Friendly? (2024 Guide)

Are you itching to get started on your next craft but can’t imagine leaving Fido behind at home? Do…

Can I Leave My Pet Alone In A Hotel Room? (2024)

Are you wondering, “Can I leave my pet alone in a hotel room?” Traveling with any animal requires a…

12 BEST Dog-Friendly Cruises (Sightseeing With Your Best Friend!)

Explore the top 12 dog-friendly cruises perfect for sightseeing with your furry friend! From luxury to river cruises, find the best options for pet-loving travelers.

Most pet owners think of their furry friends as part of the family. If you're booking a family vacation, it might not feel right to leave your dog behind. Traveling with dogs is becoming more common, however, it's still difficult for pet owners to find dog-friendly cruise lines. Are there any cruises that allow dogs onboard?

Currently, the only luxury cruise vacation that is pet-friendly is Cunard's Queen Mary 2 ship. If you want to take your dog on a cruise, there are several city and sightseeing cruise options you can enjoy. The Mercury in Chicago often hosts a Canine Cruise. Le Boat allows a limited number of dogs on each boat cruise.

Do you want to pamper your dog while being surrounded by puppy-passionate people? You're in the right spot. Today, we're going to discuss everything you wanted to know about the pet-friendly Cunard's Queen Mary 2 and other cruise excursions that allow dogs on board. We will also go into more detail about what you should know before bringing your dog onboard.

What Cruise Line Is Dog-Friendly?

The only dog-friendly cruise line is Cunard. Even though this cruise line loves providing the opportunity to bring your furry friends on board, they currently have only 1 ship that is pet-friendly. The Queen Mary 2 allows up to 24 pets on board each trip.

Since this is the only pet-friendly cruise worldwide, you can expect reservations for the pet area to fill up fast. If you want to book a cruise with your dog, you will likely need to start looking for trips at least a year in advance.

Cunard's Queen Mary 2 Dog-Friendly Cruise

Cost: $445 to $27,074 | Cost For Dogs: approximately $1000 ( exact cost will be given at the time of booking ) | Routes: New York City, NY to Southampton, England/ Southhampton, England to New York City, NY | Trip Length: 2 nights to 123 nights

Why Travel With Cunard's Queen Mary 2 Dog-Friendly Cruise

Your dog will be treated like a passenger on Queen Mary 2. There is a designated area for pets with trained professionals that are passionate about animals taking care of them. The carriers for pets on this ship have been approved by Pet Travel Scheme. Cats and dogs will be pampered at the same level as human passengers.

All pet owners can expect the best for their dogs ( and cats too! ) with Cunard. They will be provided with many great services from the Pets On Deck Program. This includes freshly baked biscuits, clean and cozy blankets and beds, and a cute new pet coat courtesy of Cunards.

Your pet will also receive a complimentary goodie bag. This includes a food dish, scoop, frisbee, and more. Owners will even get to have a portrait taken with their furry friend. Both you and your canine will get treated like royalty on this cruise vacation.  

Cunard's Queen Mary 2 Pet Rules & Restrictions

• Have your documents ready. Before boarding Queen Mary 2 with your dog, you will need to present all necessary documents for your dog to travel. This includes clearance from the government to enter the UK from the US (and vice versa).
• Pets can't travel alone. Is the dog traveling to their new home overseas? Cunard's policy states that all pets must be accompanied on the ship.
• Travelers have specific visiting hours to see their pets. The pet's area is separate from the other areas of the ship. There is a schedule that the workers must follow. This means that travelers will only be able to visit their pets during specific hours of the day.

11 Dog-Friendly Cruises (Mini Cruises, River Cruises, & More)

There are several options available for dog lovers that want to enjoy a day at sea with their pup. There may only be 1 pet-friendly luxury cruise vacation, but there are several mini cruises and other options for you and your dog. Let's take a look at some of the best cruises.

1. Bow Wow Brunch Cruise (San Diego, CA)

Cost: N/A | Trip Length: 2 1/2 hours | Location: 1800 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA

Hornblower Cruises is a popular city cruise line in San Diego. They are known for their spectacular brunch events. One event pet owners look forward to is the Bow Wow Brunch Cruise. This event has a brunch buffet for the pups, and a separate buffet for the owners as well.

The Bow Wow Brunch Cruise is an annual event, that typically takes place annually in October. Since it's close to the Halloween season, passengers can enjoy a doggy costume contest and other themed events.  

Please Note: This annual event has been put on pause since the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information about when the next cruise becomes available, check the official Hornblower calendar.

Rules & Restrictions

• One dog per adult passenger. While kids are more than welcome to come on this cruise, they are not allowed to be responsible for a dog.
• All dogs must be kept on a leash. Owners aren't allowed to use retractable leashes.
• You must clean up after your dog. All pet owners are responsible for any mess their dog makes.
• Paperwork must be completed before boarding. All passengers are required to sign waiver forms when they purchase a ticket.

2. Canine Cruise (Chicago, IL)

Cost: $8 for dogs, $42 for adults, $18 for kids (age 5 to 15), kids under 5 are free | Trip Length: 90 minutes | Location: 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL

The Mercury is a city cruise line that takes passengers along the Chicago River. Canine Cruise is a popular ship that allows passengers to bring their pooch on board. There are multiple dates from May through October annually.

Rules and Restrictions

• Keep your dog leashed. You will need to keep your dog on a leash the entire time they are onboard. The cruise line suggests owners keep their dogs on their lap or in the seat next to them. If your dog is too big for the seats, there is a deck area where you can stay with them as well.

3. Seadog Tours (Chicago, IL)

Cost: Dogs are free, $47.95 for adults, $37.95 for children (ages 3 to 12), and kids under 3 are free | Trip Length: 75 minutes | Location: 600 E Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL

Hornblower also has city cruises in Chicago. If you want to bring your dog onboard, you should book a ticket for the Seadog Tours.  This quick city cruise has tours running daily, so you can arrange a cruise whenever you're in the city.

• Dogs must be leashed and accompanied by an adult. It's recommended that you hold onto your dog throughout the cruise because the ship is known to take big turns. Some dogs may get frightened by the splashes during these turns.
• Polite dogs are invited onboard. Seadog Tours is welcoming to your four-legged friends. However, they ask that you only bring dogs onboard that are friendly and calm around people and other dogs.

4. Acadian Sightseeing & Nature Cruise (Bar Harbor, ME)

Cost: $12 to $37 | Trip Length: 2 hours | Location: 119 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME

The Acadian Sightseeing & Nature Cruise is a family-friendly adventure that also allows dogs onboard. This is a great mini cruise in Maine where passengers can enjoy seeing marine mammals and birds and more of the local area. There are cruises available from May through October.

• All dogs must be accompanied by an adult. The dog is to be remained leashed throughout the entire cruise. As the dog's owner, you will be responsible for your pet throughout the entire trip.

5. Le Boat (Various Locations- Canada & Europe)

Cost: $709 to $2683 | Trip Length: 7 nights | Location: N/A

Le Boat has various ports throughout Europe and Canada . They are the ideal company for a boating holiday. Travelers can enjoy various types of boating cruises. Dogs are welcome onboard. However, each boat has a limitation for the number of dogs onboard. Always check the specific boat's regulations and leave plenty of time to reserve your trip.

Rules & Regulations

• Dogs will need a valid rabies vaccination. Owners must supply proof of those before boarding any of the boats in Canada or the UK. Dogs will also need tapeworm treatment for traveling abroad in the UK and Ireland.
• Only 2 dogs per boat. Make sure there is room for your dog at the time of booking your ticket.
• It's recommended to bring a comfort item. Many dogs feel more comfortable traveling on the water when they have a blanket, plush toy, or other comfort items from home like a doodle brush .
• There is a $90 fee. When you travel on one of the boats with your dog, you will be charged a non-refundable cleaning fee.

6. Rodne Fjords Cruise (Norway)

Cost: Approximately $81 USD | Trip Length: 3 to 3.5 hours | Location: Skagenkaien 35-37, 4006 Stavanger, Norway

This popular Norwegian sightseeing tour is also dog-friendly. You can enjoy the beautiful scenic tour and relax with your furry friend. It is one of the best mini cruises in Norway to see the Lysefjord and Preikestolen. The boat is spacious and comfortable and guests can enjoy a stunning view from the sundeck.

Please note: Dogs are welcome on the solo cruise, but they aren't permitted on any cruises that are part of a hiking package.

• Dogs must be accompanied by an adult. It's your responsibility to keep your dog on a leash and with you during the cruise at all times.
• There is a designated dog area. In the event that another passenger onboard is allergic to dogs, there is a set area where dog owners can stay with their furry friends.

7. Scenic Cruise St. Augustine (St. Augustine, FL)

Cost: $20.75 for adults, $17.50 for seniors (60+), $9.75 for children (4 to 12) | Trip Length: 75 minutes | Location: 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL  

Scenic Cruise St. Augustine is a pet-friendly city cruise line. You can enjoy a narrated sightseeing cruise with your furry friend by your side. Passengers don't have to book specific cruises to enjoy a day out with their doggy. Your pooch is welcome on all of the scenic cruises, however, you will remain responsible for the dog at all times.

• Keep your dog on a leash at all times during the cruise. This is the only requirement that the cruise line has for bringing pets on board.

8. Dog Gone Sailing Charters (Provincetown, MA)

Cost: $45 to $580 ( Dogs are free ) | Trip Length: various half-day and full-day cruises | Location: 10 MacMillan Pier, Provincetown, MA

Dog Gone Sailing Charters treats your dog like a VIP passenger. These intimate boat cruises have enough room for 6 passengers on board. There are many types of boating cruises that you can enjoy, from sunset tours to whale-watching. This charter company takes safety seriously. They have life jackets in all sizes, for humans and dogs as well.

• Owners are responsible for their dogs. This is a smaller and more intimate boat cruise company. Your dog won't have to stay on a leash or in a particular area. However, the company recommends that your dog wear a life jacket while it's onboard.

9.  Watermark Cruises (Annapolis, MD)

Cost: $29 to $32 for adults, $11 to $14 for children, dogs are free | Trip Length: 60 to 90 minutes | Location: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD

Watermark Journey is a popular sightseeing cruise in Maryland. Dogs are welcome onboard most of the trips. The only exception is themed events, like fireworks nights and certain festivals.  

Many pet owners agree that this is one of the best boat cruises in the country for dogs. Both the pups and owners enjoy the cruise because the staff is friendly and the ride is relaxing.

• Friendly dogs are welcome. Dog owners are responsible for their dog's behavior onboard. By the company's request, it's asked that pet owners only bring their dog on the boat if it is calm and friendly.
• Dogs must remain on a leash. You aren't allowed to take your dog off of its leash while you're on the cruise ship.

10. BayWatch Dolphin Tours (Galveston, TX)

Cost: $12 to $20 per person, dogs are free | Trip Length: 45 minutes | Location: 2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX  

Galveston, TX is one of the most dog-friendly destinations to travel to in the country. There are many tourist attractions throughout the city that are pet-friendly, including the BayWatch Dolphin Tours. This tour is available 7 days a week and takes travelers to one of the best spots in the harbor for dolphin sightings.

• All passengers are responsible for the dog they bring on board. It must be kept on a leash at all times during the cruise. Please only bring dogs on board that are calm and friendly around other dogs.

11. Hy-Line Cruises (Hyannis, MA)

Cost: $58 to $99 per person, children under 4 and dogs are free | Trip Length: 1 hour to 2.5 hours | Location: 220 Ocean St, Hyannis, MA 

Hy-Line Cruises has several cruise options to choose from, and dogs are welcome on most of them. There is only one exception in which dogs aren't allowed on board. That's in the Captain's View section of the Nantucket High-Speed Ferry Grey Lady IV.

• Dogs aren't allowed on the furniture. You may keep small dogs on your lap, however, you are not allowed to place them on the seats.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash or in a cage. They will not be allowed to roam freely on the board. You are responsible for your dog while it's traveling on the cruise ship.

Why Are Dogs Not Allowed On Most Cruises?

Most cruise ships are not set up to be pet-friendly. They are designed to provide people with a more intimate travel experience. In order for pets to come on board, there needs to be a designated area. After all, there could be passengers on board that are allergic, afraid, or simply don't want to be around animals.

Another factor to consider is that these cruise ships are not equipped with the amenities to cater to pets. Some cruises will be at sea for a couple of days between destinations. There is no area onboard where the dogs can play, go for a walk, or even go to the bathroom.

Are Service Dogs Allowed On Cruise Ships?

Cruise lines will allow a service dog on board. Service dogs aren't considered a pet because they play a fundamental role in helping people with disabilities live a regular lifestyle. The level of training that service dogs have is far different from what the average housepet receives. For example, these dogs are trained to use relief boxes when they need to go to the bathroom.

Every cruise line has its own policy regarding service dogs. Make sure you find out the specific details of the company you want to travel with before booking a trip.

Can Emotional Support Dogs Go On Cruises?

Emotional support animals typically aren't allowed to go on cruises. The same rules that apply to service dogs don't apply to emotional support animals. This is because emotional support animals don't have the same level of training as service dogs. There is always a risk that the dog may not have proper training or behave well around groups of people.

73 Basic Dutch Phrases for Your Next Trip to Netherlands 🇳🇱

Learn essential Dutch phrases for a smooth trip to the Netherlands. Perfect for travelers looking to connect with locals and enrich their experience.

Win a $500 Flight!

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Enter our Dream Journey Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 travel voucher, redeemable with any major US airline. Whether it's sandy beaches, bustling cities, or tranquil mountains, your dream destination is just an email away!*

Is Sun Country Airlines Safe? Discover How They Prioritize Your Safety

When you're planning your next getaway, the safety of your chosen airline is probably at the top of your list. You've likely heard of Sun Country Airlines, a budget-friendly option that's been gaining popularity. But the big question on your mind is, "Is Sun Country Airlines safe?"

Is Delta Air Lines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. And if Delta Air Lines is on your radar, you're probably wondering just how safe it is to fly with them. Let's face it, in today's world, the safety of an airline can make or break your travel plans.

Is American Airlines Safe? Uncovering the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with American Airlines, you're likely wondering just how safe it really is. It's a valid concern—after all, you're cruising at 35,000 feet!

Is Biman Bangladesh Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially one that takes you across borders, the safety of your chosen airline is a top priority. You've probably come across Biman Bangladesh Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about its safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo: you and your loved ones.

Is Arkia Israeli Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning a trip, you're likely to ponder over which airline to choose, especially when it comes to safety. If you've got your eyes set on Israel, Arkia Israeli Airlines might have popped up in your search. It's Israel's second-largest airline, but how does it stack up in terms of safety?

Is Air Albania Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Next Flight's Security

When planning your next trip, you might wonder about the safety of your chosen airline. It's a valid concern, especially if you're considering flying with a relatively new player like Air Albania. Founded in 2018, it's the flag carrier of Albania, but how does it stack up in terms of safety?

Is Jeju Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When planning a trip, especially by air, safety is always at the top of your mind. You've probably come across Jeju Air, a popular low-cost carrier in South Korea, and wondered, "Is Jeju Air safe?" It's a valid question, considering the budget-friendly tickets and the airline's growing network across Asia.

Is Air Tahiti Nui Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When planning a trip to the enchanting islands of Tahiti, you're likely considering Air Tahiti Nui for your journey. It's the flagship carrier that promises an exotic travel experience, whisking you away to paradise. But amidst the excitement, a crucial question pops up: Is Air Tahiti Nui safe?

Is Avelo Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind, right? You're probably wondering if Avelo Airlines, the new kid on the block in the aviation world, ticks all the boxes for a safe journey. It's a valid question, especially with so many options out there.

Is PenAir Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Nervous and Aspiring Travelers

When you're planning your next flight, safety is probably at the top of your list. You've likely come across PenAir in your search for regional flights, but you're wondering: is PenAir safe? It's a valid question, especially when flying to some of the more remote locations PenAir serves.

Is Ravn Alaska Safe? Unveiling Truths Behind Your Flight's Reliability

When planning a trip to the Last Frontier, you might wonder about the best way to hop between its vast landscapes. Ravn Alaska pops up as a popular option, but there's a big question on your mind: Is Ravn Alaska safe? Let's dive into what makes an airline tick in terms of safety and see how Ravn stacks up.

Is Breeze Airways Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious & Aspiring Travelers

When you're eyeing those tempting deals from Breeze Airways for your next trip, it's only natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, who doesn't want a smooth and secure journey to their dream destination? Breeze Airways, a newcomer in the sky, has sparked curiosity among travelers seeking both value and peace of mind.

Is Cape Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pilot Training and Fleet Safety

When planning your next adventure or business trip, you're likely to ponder over the safety of your chosen airline. If Cape Air's on your radar, you're probably asking, "Is Cape Air safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially when your comfort and peace of mind are at stake.

Is Silver Airways Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely juggling a lot of decisions. Where to stay, what to pack, and, crucially, which airline to trust with your safety in the skies. If you're considering Silver Airways for your journey, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be nerve-wracking enough without worrying about the reliability of your chosen airline.

Is GoJet Airlines Safe? The Truth Behind Passenger Reviews and Safety Concerns

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with GoJet Airlines, one question might pop into your mind: "Is GoJet Airlines safe?" It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where safety is paramount. Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see how GoJet stacks up.

Is Endeavor Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Secure Journey

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Endeavor Air, it's natural to wonder about safety. After all, you want your journey to be as smooth and worry-free as possible. Safety is a top priority for any airline, but how does Endeavor Air stack up?

Is Trans States Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pilot Training & Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Trans States Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. You're not alone in your curiosity, and the good news is, we've got the scoop for you.

Is Air Wisconsin Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Air Wisconsin, safety is likely one of your top concerns. It's a big deal choosing an airline, especially with the myriad of options and opinions floating around.

Is Envoy Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Next Flight

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Envoy Air, it's natural to wonder about the airline's safety record. After all, your safety is paramount, and you want to ensure you're making the best choice for your travel.

Is Mesa Airlines Safe? Discover What Passengers Aren't Telling You

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Mesa Airlines, safety is likely at the top of your mind. It's a big world out there, and knowing you're in good hands while jetting off to your next adventure can make all the difference.

Is Compass Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Must Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Compass Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. But diving into the world of airline safety can feel like navigating through a maze. Don't worry; we've got you covered.

Is Republic Airways Safe? Insights That Every Nervous Flyer Must Read

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Republic Airways, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring you're in good hands while thousands of feet up in the air is pretty crucial. You're not alone in your concerns; it's a question on the minds of many travelers.

Is SkyWest Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning your next trip, you might be wondering about the best airline options out there. Safety, no doubt, tops your list of concerns. You've probably heard of SkyWest Airlines, a major player in the regional airline sector. But the burning question remains: Is SkyWest Airlines safe?

Is Icelandair Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Us

When you're planning a trip that involves flying, safety naturally tops your list of concerns. And if Iceland's stunning landscapes are calling your name, you're probably considering Icelandair for your journey. But how safe is this airline, really?

Is Luxair Safe? Unveiling What Really Matters to Nervous Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely scrolling through countless options, wondering which airline will get you there safely and comfortably. Luxair, Luxembourg's flag carrier, often pops up as a top choice for European destinations. But in the sea of airlines, you might ask yourself, "Is Luxair safe?"

Is SpiceJet Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Passenger Reviews

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with SpiceJet, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be daunting, and choosing the right airline is crucial for a worry-free journey.

Is El Al Safe? Debunking Myths & Unveiling the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially an international one, safety is likely at the top of your list. And if your travels are taking you to or from Israel, you've probably heard of El Al. It's Israel's national airline and has a reputation that precedes it. But what's behind the buzz? Is El Al really as safe as they say?

Is China Eastern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip, especially one that spans continents, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably come across China Eastern Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo - yourself and your loved ones.

Is China Southern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Concerns

When it comes to air travel, safety is always at the forefront of everyone's mind. You might be planning your next trip and wondering, "Is China Southern safe?" It's a valid question, especially when venturing far from home.

Is Malaysia Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Travelers

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose is a big deal. You want comfort, good service, and most importantly, safety. Malaysia Airlines often pops up as a tempting option with its attractive routes and competitive prices. But there's that nagging question in the back of your mind: Is Malaysia Airlines safe?

Is Japan Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You might be wondering, "Is Japan Airlines safe?" Well, you're in the right place to find out. Japan Airlines, known for its impeccable service, also prides itself on its safety record.

Is ANA Safe? Discover How They Ensure Your Peace of Mind in the Skies

When you're planning a trip, especially one that involves flying, safety is likely at the top of your mind. You might be wondering about All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, and its safety record. Is it a reliable choice for your next journey?

Is Singapore Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Flawless Safety Record

When you're jetting off to exotic locales or crucial business meetings, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety in the sky. That's where Singapore Airlines comes into play. Known for its impeccable service, it's natural to wonder about its safety record too.

Is Emirates Safe? Unveiling What Happy Travelers Really Think

When you're planning your next journey, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably heard a lot about Emirates, known for its luxurious experience, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see where Emirates lands.

Is LOT Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You might've heard about LOT Polish Airlines and wondered, "Is LOT safe?" Well, you're not alone in asking. Safety concerns are valid, especially when it's about flying thousands of feet above the ground.

Is Aeromexico Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Aeromexico, safety might be at the top of your mind. It's natural to wonder about the safety records of airlines these days, especially with the amount of travel we all do. Aeromexico, as one of the leading carriers in Latin America, often comes under scrutiny.

Is Norwegian Safe? Discover Why Travelers Trust Its Skies

When you're planning your next adventure, safety is always at the top of your list. And if Norway's on your radar, you're probably wondering, "Is Norwegian safe?" Let's dive into what makes this Nordic country a destination worth considering from a safety perspective.

Is Allegiant Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You've probably heard mixed reviews about budget airlines, and Allegiant Air often comes up in those conversations. It's natural to wonder, "Is Allegiant Air safe?"

Is Hawaiian Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust This Paradise Airline

When you're planning a tropical getaway, the last thing you want to stress over is whether your flight will be a smooth sail or a turbulent ride. Enter Hawaiian Airlines, a name that's almost synonymous with the aloha spirit and island hopping. But beyond the lei greetings and in-flight POG juice, you're probably wondering, "Is Hawaiian Airlines safe?"

Is Frontier Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose can make all the difference. You've probably heard about Frontier Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, but you might be wondering, "Is Frontier Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip and looking for budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines often pops up as a tempting choice. But amidst the excitement of snagging a great deal, you might pause and wonder, "Is Spirit Airlines safe?" It's a valid question, especially when you're about to trust them with your most precious cargo—yourself!

Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

When you're planning your next trip, the airline you choose is as crucial as your destination. You've probably heard a lot about JetBlue, known for its comfy seats and ample legroom, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? It's a question worth asking, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Alaska Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Them

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. You're not just looking for a smooth flight; you want peace of mind from takeoff to touchdown. That's where Alaska Airlines comes into play. It's a name you've probably heard tossed around when talking about reliable air travel, but how safe is it really?

Is Southwest Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with Southwest Airlines, you might be wondering just how safe your journey will be. It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where travel safety has become more important than ever.

Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You've likely come across United Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, and wondered, "Is United Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Every Lifestyle

Dreaming of living in paradise? Hawaii's got you covered, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and Aloha spirit. But with so many amazing spots, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Florida for Everyone - Beaches, Festivals & More

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant cities, and laid-back lifestyle. But with so many great places to choose from, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly Spots in NC - From Asheville to Outer Banks

Looking for the perfect spot in North Carolina to plant your family roots? You're in luck! This state's got a little something for everyone, from bustling cities to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Top Places to Thrive in Your 20s: A Guide to Affordability, Adventure, & Opportunities

Ah, your 20s! A time to explore, grow, and maybe even settle down in a new spot that feels just right. It's all about finding that perfect blend of fun, opportunity, and affordability.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Houston for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Houston's a big city, with even bigger opportunities for finding the perfect spot to call home. Whether you're all about the hustle and bustle of city life or looking for a quiet corner to settle down, there's something here for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Missouri for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Adults

Thinking about moving to Missouri or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Show-Me State? You're in luck. Missouri's got a little something for everyone, from bustling city vibes to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Connecticut for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Connecticut? You're in for a treat! This state's got a little bit of everything – from cozy small towns to bustling cities. It's all about finding the spot that feels just right for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indiana for Everyone - Schools, Costs & Lifestyle

Thinking about calling Indiana home? You're in for a treat! The Hoosier State is packed with charming towns, bustling cities, and everything in between. Whether you're after the quiet of the countryside or the buzz of city life, Indiana's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Illinois for Everyone - Families to Retirees

Thinking about making a move to Illinois? You're in for a treat! The Prairie State is not just about deep-dish pizza and the Windy City. There's a lot more to discover, from cozy small towns to bustling suburbs that offer the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Every Lifestyle & Age

Dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves or perhaps craving the vibrant city vibes only the East Coast can offer? You're in luck because we're diving into the best spots that just might make you want to pack your bags today. From quaint towns with rich history to bustling cities with endless opportunities, the East Coast has something for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Nashville for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving close to the heart of country music? Nashville's got more than just tunes to offer. It's surrounded by some pretty sweet spots that give you the best of both worlds: serene living and easy access to the city vibes.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in New Mexico for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Mexico? You're in for a treat! With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and sunny weather, it's no wonder you're considering it. But with so many awesome places to choose from, where should you start?

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in New Hampshire for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Hampshire? You're in for a treat! From the stunning White Mountains to the serene lakes, there's a spot for everyone in this charming New England state. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the peacefulness of the countryside, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of both.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Delaware for Everyone [2024]

Thinking about making Delaware your new home? You're in luck! This little gem of a state might be small, but it's packed with some of the best places to live on the East Coast. From cozy beach towns to bustling city life, Delaware's got a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Massachusetts for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Massachusetts? You're in for a treat. This state's got a little bit of everything, from bustling cities to quiet, quaint towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, vibrant cultural scenes, or just some stunning nature, Massachusetts delivers.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Minnesota for All Lifestyles

Thinking about making a move to Minnesota, or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Well, you're in luck. Minnesota's not just about the cold and snow; it's packed with cities that boast great jobs, vibrant communities, and plenty of outdoor fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Alaska for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about making the big move to Alaska? You're in for a treat! It's not just about snow and sled dogs; Alaska's got some of the most stunning landscapes and tight-knit communities you'll find anywhere.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in West Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about calling West Virginia home? You're in for a treat. This place isn't just about stunning mountains and rivers; it's got some hidden gems where life feels just right. Whether you're after that small-town charm, vibrant city vibes, or a quiet spot surrounded by nature, West Virginia's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places in Florida for Families - Live Happily Ever After

Thinking about moving your family to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly communities. But with so many options, deciding where to plant your roots can be a bit overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in North Carolina for Retirees & More

North Carolina's got a charm that's hard to beat, especially if you're looking to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. From the cozy mountains to the sunny beaches, there's a spot for every retiree to call home.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable NJ Spots Near NYC for Every Lifestyle

Living close to NYC is a dream for many, but let's be real, it can get pricey. Good news, though! New Jersey offers some gems that won't break the bank and still keep you close to the Big Apple. Whether you're after the bustling streets or a quiet corner, there's a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Vermont Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Families

Thinking about making a move to Vermont? You're not alone. This charming state, known for its stunning landscapes and cozy small towns, is a magnet for those seeking a quieter, more scenic life. With its mix of vibrant communities and peaceful countryside, Vermont offers the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Everyone (2024)

Thinking about making a move to the Natural State? You're in for a treat! Arkansas is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly folks, and a cost of living that's hard to beat. Whether you're drawn to the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of the countryside, Arkansas has got something for everyone.

Idaho's Top Living Spots: The Ultimate Guide for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about moving to Idaho? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, it's no wonder more and more people are calling it home. But with so many great spots, it can be tough to decide where to plant your roots.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Wyoming for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Wyoming? You're in for a treat! This state's known for its wide-open spaces, stunning scenery, and a lifestyle that's both laid-back and adventurous. Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the promise of a peaceful, community-focused life, Wyoming's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Spots in South Carolina for Young Adults - Live, Work & Play

South Carolina's charm isn't just in its sweet tea and beaches. For young adults looking for a fresh start or a new scene, it's got some hidden gems that might just be your next home sweet home. From bustling cities to cozy coastal towns, there's a spot for every vibe and ambition.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Washington State for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to the Evergreen State? You're in for a treat! Washington's got a bit of everything, from bustling city life to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after the techy vibes of Seattle or the serene landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, there's a spot just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Montana for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Thinking about calling Montana home? You're not alone. With its breathtaking landscapes and wide-open spaces, it's a place that calls to the heart of adventurers and peace-seekers alike. But with so many amazing spots, picking the best place to plant roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Virginia? You're in for a treat! This state's got everything from bustling cities to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, job opportunities, or just a beautiful place to call home, Virginia's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in North Carolina for Happiness, Weather & More

Thinking about making a move to North Carolina? You're in for a treat! From the bustling streets of Charlotte to the serene beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina's got a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the quiet charm of small-town living, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: The Best Places to Live in Georgia for Everyone—from Retirees to Families

Thinking about making a move to Georgia? You're not alone. With its warm climate, rich culture, and booming job market, it's no wonder people are flocking to the Peach State. But with so many great places to choose from, where do you even start?

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Florida for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is a magnet for folks seeking sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle. But with so many awesome spots, picking the best place to plant your roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indianapolis for Everyone

Thinking about moving to Indianapolis? Great choice! Indy's got a lot to offer, from vibrant neighborhoods to bustling city life. But with so many spots to choose from, finding the perfect place to call home can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Orlando for Families & More

Orlando's not just about theme parks and tourist spots; it's a fantastic place to plant roots, especially if you've got a family in tow. With its sunny weather, great schools, and endless activities, it's no wonder families flock here. But with so many neighborhoods, choosing where to live can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in Oregon for Young Adults - Live, Play, Thrive

Oregon's got a vibe that's hard to beat, especially if you're a young adult looking for the perfect spot to plant your roots. With its mix of bustling cities, laid-back towns, and everything in between, there's a place for every taste and lifestyle.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Columbus Ohio for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot to call home in Columbus, Ohio? You're in luck! Columbus is a city brimming with charm, diverse communities, and endless opportunities. Whether you're all about the nightlife, a fan of quiet suburbs, or somewhere in between, there's a place just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Affordable Places in North Carolina for Everyone

Thinking about moving to North Carolina but worried about the cost? You're in luck! North Carolina's got some hidden gems where you can enjoy the good life without breaking the bank. From cozy mountain towns to vibrant cities, there's a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Partygoers

Thinking about making a move to the East Coast? You're in for a treat! From bustling cities to quiet seaside towns, there's a spot for everyone. Whether you're dreaming of fresh seafood by the ocean or a fast-paced city vibe, we've got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Brooklyn for Every Demographic

Brooklyn's got a vibe like nowhere else. It's where the cool kids hang and the artists create. But with so many neighborhoods, picking where to call home can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in San Antonio for All Lifestyles

San Antonio's got a vibe that's hard to beat, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and killer food scene. If you're thinking about making the move or just curious, you're in the right spot. Finding the perfect neighborhood in this sprawling city can be a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack—but a whole lot more fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Kentucky for Everyone

Thinking about calling Kentucky home? You're onto something special. Known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and friendly communities, the Bluegrass State offers a unique blend of natural beauty and welcoming neighborhoods.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Maryland for Everyone's Wish List

Thinking about moving to Maryland? You're in for a treat! This state's got a mix of everything - from bustling city vibes in Baltimore to the laid-back, scenic beauty of its coastal towns.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Portland for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making Portland your new home? You're in for a treat! This city's got a vibe like no other, with its quirky culture, amazing food, and stunning nature spots. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the perfect spot can be a bit of a head-scratcher.

Ultimate Guide: Top Austin Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle & Budget

Thinking about making a move to Austin? You're not alone. This vibrant city has been pulling folks in with its unique charm, incredible music scene, and mouth-watering BBQ. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the right spot can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live on East Coast for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Dreaming about moving to the East Coast? You're not alone. With its charming towns, bustling cities, and stunning beaches, the East Coast offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the vibrant city life or a quiet seaside retreat, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Washington DC for Every Lifestyle

So, you're thinking about moving to Washington, DC? Great choice! The city's not just about politics and monuments. It's got neighborhoods that'll make you wanna stay forever. From trendy spots buzzing with cafes and galleries to quiet, leafy streets perfect for Sunday strolls, DC's got a bit of everything.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina for Every Lifestyle

Looking for a spot in North Carolina that's easy on your wallet but still ticks all the boxes for a great place to live? You're in luck. North Carolina's got a bunch of hidden gems that offer a fantastic quality of life without breaking the bank.

Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly California Locales for Every Lifestyle

California's got it all for families looking for their next home sweet home. From the sunny beaches to the scenic mountains and bustling cities, there's a spot for every family's taste and budget.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in the Midwest for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about calling the Midwest home? You're in for a treat! This heartland is chock-full of hidden gems, each offering its unique blend of charm, community, and comfort. From bustling cities with all the modern amenities to quiet towns where everyone knows your name, there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Georgia for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot in Georgia to call home? You're in luck! Georgia's got a little bit of everything, from bustling city vibes in Atlanta to the laid-back coastal charm of Savannah. It's a place where you can find your niche, whether you're after top-notch schools, thriving job markets, or just a great community feel.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Orlando for Every Lifestyle

Looking to move close to Orlando but not sure where to start? You're in luck! Orlando's surrounding areas offer a mix of vibrant communities, each with its own unique charm. Whether you're after the buzz of city life or the tranquility of suburbia, there's a spot near Orlando that's perfect for you.

Ultimate Long Island Living Guide: Top Spots for Everyone's Lifestyle

Dreaming of a spot with sandy beaches, cozy neighborhoods, and endless bagels? Long Island's got you covered. It's not just about the stunning coastline; this place is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and communities. Whether you're a city escapee, a nature lover, or somewhere in between, there's a perfect corner here for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arizona for Young Adults - Explore, Thrive, & Enjoy

Thinking about making a move to Arizona? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes, booming job market, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder young adults are flocking to the Grand Canyon State. But with so many cool spots to choose from, where should you set up camp?

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places in Washington State for Everyone

Looking for a spot in Washington State that won't break the bank? You're in luck! We've got the scoop on the best affordable places that still offer that amazing Pacific Northwest vibe. Whether you're dreaming of cozy mountain towns or vibrant city life, Washington's got a little something for everyone.

Ultimate Guide to Arizona: Top Spots for Young Adults – Live, Play, Thrive

Looking for the perfect spot in Arizona to plant your roots as a young adult? You're in luck! The Grand Canyon State isn't just about breathtaking landscapes and sunsets that'll blow your mind. It's also home to some pretty awesome places that cater specifically to the younger crowd.

You may also like...

Carnival Cruise Cancellation Policy (3 Different Options!)

Explore Carnival Cruise cancellation policy: 3 clear options for refunds & penalties. Ideal for travelers planning with flexibility. Learn more now!

18 BEST Cruises For Young Adults (Cruises For Every Budget!)

Explore the top 18 cruises for young adults! From budget-friendly to luxury options, find the perfect sea adventure to suit your style and wallet.

The travel site  inspired by travelers and locals alike. Find amazing destinations, unique trip ideas, the best hotels, and most comfortable resorts.

Dog-Friendly Cruise: The Best Options for Your Next Vacation

Traveling with your pet is now easier with dog-friendly cruises. This guide offers insights into pet-friendly vacation options, covering the cruise lines that welcome pets, preparation requirements, and the benefits of bringing your furry friend along. 

Dive in as we navigate the world of dog-friendly cruises, making your next voyage an unforgettable one with your canine companion.

Understanding Dog-Friendly Cruises

If you’re a pet owner, you might wonder if you can take your furry friend on a cruise. Fortunately, there are some dog-friendly cruises available that allow pets onboard. However, before you book your next cruise, you should know some essential things about pet-friendly cruises.

Which Cruises Allow Pets?

Pet-friendly cruises are uncommon; only a few cruise lines allow pets onboard. The most pet-friendly cruise line is Cunard Line, and they only allow pets on one of their ships, the Queen Mary 2. Other cruise lines that would enable pets include:

• Windstar Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• MSC Cruises

However, it’s important to note that not all ships on these cruise lines allow pets, and there are restrictions on the number and size of pets allowed.

What Are the Requirements for Bringing Your Pet?

Bringing your pet on a cruise requires some planning and preparation. The requirements for bringing your pet may vary depending on the cruise line and the destination. However, some general conditions apply to most pet-friendly cruises.

• Your pet must be fully vaccinated and have a current health certificate.
• Your pet must be kept in a kennel when not in your cabin.
• There may be restrictions on the number and size of pets allowed.
• You may be required to pay an additional fee for bringing your pet.

Before booking your cruise, you must check with the cruise line to ensure you meet all the requirements for bringing your pet.

What Are the Benefits of a Dog-Friendly Cruise?

If you’re a pet owner, a dog-friendly cruise can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. Some of the benefits of a dog-friendly cruise include:

• You can spend more time with your pet and avoid leaving them at home or in a kennel.
• You can enjoy the company of other pet owners and their pets onboard.
• You can explore new destinations with your pet and participate in pet-friendly activities.

Major Cruise Lines and Their Pet Policies

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly cruise, knowing which cruise lines allow pets on board is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the pet policies for some major cruise lines that offer dog-friendly cruises.

1. Queen Mary 2

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the only ship in the fleet that allows pets on board. The ship has a kennel program can accommodate up to 24 dogs and cats per voyage. The kennels are staffed by trained professionals who will care for your pet during the voyage. You can visit your pet during designated hours, and they’ll also be walked and fed regularly.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean does not allow pets on board, except for service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

3. Carnival

Carnival does not allow pets on board, except for service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line does not allow pets on board except service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

5. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises does not allow pets on board, except for service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

6. Cunard Line

As mentioned earlier, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the only ship in the fleet that allows pets on board. The kennel program can accommodate up to 24 dogs and cats per voyage.

7. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line does not allow pets on board except service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

8. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises does not allow pets on board, except for service animals. You must provide documentation and notify the cruise line in advance if you have a service animal.

Specialty Dog-Friendly Cruises

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly cruise, several options cater to pet owners. These specialty cruises offer a unique experience for you and your furry friend, with various activities and amenities designed to make your trip enjoyable.

9. Canine Cruise

One of the most popular dog-friendly cruises is the Canine Cruise, which takes place on the Chicago River. Mercury Cruises host this cruise and allows dogs of all sizes to come aboard and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. The cruise lasts about 90 minutes and includes a guided tour of the river and plenty of opportunities for your pup to socialize with other dogs on board.

10. The Mercury

In addition to the Canine Cruise, Mercury Cruises also offers a variety of other dog-friendly cruises throughout the year. These cruises include the Bark at the Moon Cruise, which takes place during the full moon and features live music, a dog costume contest, and the Howl-O-Ween Cruise, a Halloween-themed cruise complete with trick-or-treating for dogs.

11. 1Avista Reisen

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly cruise in Europe, 1Avista Reisen offers a variety of options. These cruises occur on the Rhine, Danube, and other European rivers, allowing dogs of all sizes to come aboard. Some of the amenities offered on these cruises include dog beds, bowls, treats, and designated areas for your pup to do their business.

12. Corsica Ferries

Corsica Ferries also offers dog-friendly cruises, with several routes available throughout the Mediterranean. These cruises allow dogs of all sizes to come aboard, and some of the amenities provided include dog beds, bowls, treats, and designated areas for your pup to do their business.

DFDS offers a dog-friendly mini-cruise from Amsterdam to Newcastle, which allows dogs of all sizes to come aboard. Some of the amenities provided on this cruise include dog beds, bowls, treats, and designated areas for your pup to do their business.

14. Baltic Mini-Cruises

Baltic Mini-Cruises also offers a dog-friendly cruise on the Baltic Sea. This cruise allows dogs of all sizes to come aboard, and some of the amenities provided include dog beds, bowls, treats, and designated areas for your pup to do their business.

Check out: Top 5 Cruise Destinations , Eco-Friendly Cruise Lines , Importance of Cruise Travel Insurance

Regulations and Requirements for Pet Travel on Dog-Friendly Cruises

Before embarking on a cruise with your furry friend, you must know the regulations and requirements for pet travel. Here are some of the critical things you need to know:

Vaccination Requirements

Most cruise lines require that your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies. You must provide proof of vaccination, so bring your pet’s vaccination records on the cruise.

Regulations for Pet Travel

Each cruise line has its regulations and requirements for pet travel, so it’s essential to check with the specific cruise line you are considering before booking your trip. Some general regulations to keep in mind include:

• Your pet must be at least 6 months old
• Your pet must be in good health and not pregnant
• Your pet must be well-behaved and not pose a threat to other passengers or crew members
• Your pet must be kept in a carrier or kennel when not in your cabin
• Your pet must be supervised at all times
• There may be restrictions on the number and size of pets allowed on board

Additional Requirements

In addition to vaccination and regulation requirements, some cruise lines may have additional requirements for pet travel. These may include:

• A health certificate from your veterinarian
• A pet deposit or fee
• A limit on the number of pets allowed in each cabin
• A designated area for pets to relieve themselves

Be sure to check with the cruise line for any additional requirements before booking your trip.

Port of Call: Pet-Friendly Destinations

When planning your dog-friendly cruise, it’s essential to consider the ports of call on your itinerary. Luckily, there are plenty of pet-friendly destinations to choose from that will allow you to explore with your furry friend.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the top pet-friendly destinations on the East Coast. This stunning park is located in Maine and offers over 120 miles of hiking trails and plenty of boating and fishing opportunities.

When visiting Acadia National Park with your dog, be sure to keep them on a leash at all times. Dogs are not allowed on some of the park’s beaches or specific hiking trails, so it’s essential to research before visiting. However, there are still plenty of dog-friendly trails and areas to explore, such as the carriage roads and the Jordan Pond Path.

In addition to hiking and outdoor activities, Acadia National Park also offers pet-friendly accommodations. The park has several campgrounds that allow dogs and a variety of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in the surrounding area.

Therapy and Support Animals on Cruises

If you need a therapy or support animal, bringing them on a dog-friendly cruise might be possible. Several cruise lines accommodate these animals, but they must fulfill specific requirements.

It’s crucial to distinguish therapy animals, used for comfort in medical facilities, from support animals that assist individuals with disabilities. If your support animal helps you, ensure it’s trained for tasks necessary on the cruise ship. For instance, guiding visually impaired passengers around the ship.

Although Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are sometimes allowed on cruises, they’re not recognized as service animals under the ADA and may face restrictions on the ship.

Taking a dog-friendly cruise is a unique and enjoyable experience. The options are growing, and the adventure is truly worthwhile. So why leave your furry friend behind? With a bit of planning, your next vacation can be a shared journey full of unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, and let’s set sail on the dog-friendly cruise of a lifetime.

Christian Petzold is a successful touristic entrepreneur, experiential traveller and round-the-world backpacker. He holds an academic degree in tourism management.

His touristic expertise has been covered in radio, newspaper and television.

Read more on him here…

One thought on “ Dog-Friendly Cruise: The Best Options for Your Next Vacation ”

I have a little cockapoo, very well behaved and friendly

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Are dogs allowed on cruise ships? These are the cruises that allow pets

We know it can be difficult to be away from your four-legged friends when you travel, especially if you're on a family vacation. After all, they're part of the family, too. So, can you bring pets on a cruise? There's good news and bad news.

Generally, the answer is no, but there are exceptions. One cruise line has a dedicated kennel on board its most iconic vessel, and there's space for both dogs and cats. However, you'll have to leave your bird, hamster and ferret at home.

On all cruise ships, service animals who are trained in specific tasks are typically allowed, with rules varying by cruise line. (Note that "emotional support" pets are generally banned from the high seas.)

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

Even if you don't bring your pet, there are ways to cuddle with puppies on cruise ships and admire dogs and kittens at ports of call.

Here are the details about pet-friendly cruises.

Can you bring a dog or cat on a cruise?

The number of cruise ships that allow pets is extremely limited. In fact, the only cruise line with facilities for your dog or cat is Cunard Line , and the only ship in its fleet equipped to carry Fluffy and Fido is the posh 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 ocean liner. The vessel single-handedly upholds the line's longstanding tradition of being pet-friendly.

Back in the 1800s, cats were "employed" on Cunard ships to take care of vermin. In the 1900s, the rich and famous — including actress Elizabeth Taylor — set sail with their pets. The ship's list of famous past guests includes the dancing dog Pudsey, a winner of "Britain's Got Talent" who sailed with human partner Ashleigh Jade Butler in 2012.

On select transatlantic sailings between New York and Southampton in the United Kingdom, Cunard makes two dozen kennels located in a private area aft on Deck 12 available to pet owners. In addition to the cages, there is the Owner's Lounge, where guests may spend quality time with their pets, and a large, gated outdoor exercise area equipped with an antique lamppost from Liverpool and a fire hydrant from New York City.

Your pet must stay in the kennel and not your stateroom, and that rule applies even if you book the ship's 2,249-square-foot Grand Duplex or other fancy Queens Grill digs . But rest assured, your pet will be properly pampered. Cunard provides toys, fresh-baked treats, feeding bowls and beds, as well as pet life jackets, should they be needed. If you want to go all-out, you can order treats such as liver or a steak for your pet for an additional fee. Those who want a fun memento may have their pet pose for a photo wearing a red Cunard uniform or a Queen Mary 2 life ring.

Seafaring pets also have plenty of playtime. Dogs are regularly walked (and cleaned up after) by a team that includes a "kennel master" and an assistant. You can hang out with your furry friend during set visiting hours.

Be aware that space is extremely limited. Cunard recommends booking pet accommodations at least a year in advance – and it isn't cheap. The price tags vary by pet type and size but start from $800 for a small dog, $1,000 for a large dog and $1,600 for a cat (since cats are required to have two cages: one for sleeping and another for a litter box). There are also regulations regarding vaccinations, microchipping and more.

Those not traveling with their pet but wanting a glimpse of the pampered dogs should head to the outdoor area on Deck 12 in the late afternoon when the dogs get free time.

Are service animals allowed on cruises?

Each cruise line has its own rules for service dogs. On Royal Caribbean , for instance, only pets that are "individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability" are allowed. Royal Caribbean provides a specific 16-square-foot relief area covered in cypress mulch that's shared with any other service dogs on board. The cruise line notes on its website that your dog may not relieve him or herself among the live trees in Central Park on the Oasis-class ships.

Pet owners are required to bring food and bowls, and the dog must remain on a leash or harness in public areas and may not be left unattended in your cabin. Here's more information about bringing pets on board Royal Caribbean ships .

On Carnival ships , any dogs on board need to be "working service dogs, which are legally defined as individually trained to meet disability-related needs by performing tasks like guiding a blind person, alerting a deaf person, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks." Here's more information about bringing pets on board Carnival ships .

Norwegian Cruise Line accepts service dogs "trained to perform a specific task" and specifies on its website it "does NOT accept 'Emotional Support' dogs as service dogs, they CANNOT sail." You need to bring all your pet's food, medication and a special dog life jacket. A relief sandbox is provided. Here's more information about Norwegian Cruise Line's pet policy .

In all cases, service dog owners need to make reservations for their canines in advance and are responsible for researching and understanding rules for disembarking with a dog at each port of call. (Canine companions may not be allowed off the ship at some ports.) Additionally, there might be specific immunization requirements.

If your dog makes a mess on board, you could be charged a cleaning fee. If your dog misbehaves, you could be kicked off the ship. With no veterinarian on board, you may also want to bring along doggy seasickness pills just in case.

Puppies on Princess

For cruisers who need a puppy-cuddle fix during their sailing, Princess Cruises brings professional sled dog racing humans and their husky puppies on board ships in Skagway, Alaska, as part of the line's North to Alaska immersion program.

Called Puppies on Princess (formerly Puppies in the Piazza), the program offers an opportunity for you to pose for a photo with a lovable canine while also hearing from the owner about training the animal for winter sled dog races such as the annual 1,100-mile Iditarod. You'll also learn how dogs played an important part in Alaska history – before snowmobiles (known in Alaska as snow machines), teams of dog teams carried mail, medical supplies and other materials to remote communities.

On Alaska sailings , cruise lines also typically have dogsled shore excursions where passengers are pulled by a team of sled dogs on the snowy top of a glacier (you get there via helicopter) or in a cart on a dirt training trail. The experiences are available in ports such as Juneau and Seward.

If you're on a pre- or post-cruise land tour to Denali National Park & Preserve, you may want to visit the park's resident sled dogs. Known affectionately as "bark rangers," they are tasked with hauling supplies around the park in winter (motorized vehicles are banned in much of the 2 million-acre park).

For cat lovers

Cat fans will find plenty of opportunities to snap photos of felines in such places as Istanbul or the Old Town area of Dubrovnik, Croatia, where furry wanderers are as famous an attraction as sites that appeared as filming locations in HBO's "Game of Thrones."

If you are sailing on one of Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships, you might spot Bug Naked, a hairless Sphynx owned by Capt. Kate McCue, who dresses Bug in a miniature captain's uniform and pushes her around the ship in a stroller.

Or, if you want to show off photos of your own cats while wearing cat ears and sipping cocktails, or participate in themed events such as cat trivia and a cat scavenger hunt, book a Meow Meow cruise , an annual at-sea gathering of cat fans.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 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

Additional reporting by Ashley Kosciolek.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

The Pet Friendly Vacation Guide

Revealed: The Most Pet-Friendly Cruise Lines & Their Policies

posted on March 15, 2023 by James Brockbank | Last updated on March 15, 2023

Have you ever craved to experience an adventurous sea voyage alongside your pet? If you’re planning on indulging in such an activity, be wary; only a select few cruise ships offer this pleasure. Although cruising is a popular way to spend your vacation in luxury, different cruise lines have different pet and service animal policies.

Besides the rules of the cruise line, make sure to research the countries you stop at. It’s best to come prepared with all the needed documentation to avoid getting your pet stuck in quarantine.

Since numerous pet restrictions exist, we want to provide you with all the needed information about your best choices. So come with us and discover these rare dog-friendly cruises, their policies, and what they offer.

Pet, emotional support, or service dog

Most common pet policies for cruise ships, cunard line’s queen mary 2, royal caribbean, other popular cruise lines, smaller-themed cruises, cruise line pet-friendliness.

Defining cruise line dog-friendliness is difficult since most of their rules and regulations differ from normal vacation venues. While pet-friendly means taking your beloved furry friend along for most accommodations, it’s different for cruise ships. Their dog-friendliness usually applies to service animals only. 

While we define pets as animals we take home to share our companionship with, this doesn’t make them emotional support or service dogs. 

Service dogs are special because they can perform certain tasks for people with disabilities. Regardless of the physical, intellectual, or sensory condition, these animals are trained to help with the person’s everyday needs.

However, according to the ADA, emotional support dogs don’t fall under the category of service animals. This is because they aren’t necessarily trained to perform specific tasks but rather to provide comfort. While service dogs act flawlessly in public, most emotional support dogs are usually indistinguishable from normal, well-behaved pets.

While researching the possibility of cruising with your pooch, you’ll stumble upon four frequent pet policies.

The first and fairly common one is “No pets allowed.” No matter if you have a pet, emotional support animal, or service dog with you, there’s a zero-tolerance policy for bringing them aboard. It’s typical for international cruises and is usually due to country laws, passenger care, or simply misbehaving pets. 

The second one you’ll find is “Service animals only.” Most cruise lines simply follow this as a general rule because service animals are part of US law. It states that these dogs must be allowed to travel with their owner since they’re responsible for the person’s well-being.

The third option is for both service and emotional support animals to be allowed on the ship. This heavily relies on the cruise line itself since emotional support dogs don’t fall under the same laws as service ones. 

Last but not least, the hidden gem is known as “All pets allowed.” Although the name is self-explanatory, you can rarely find this opportunity. However, there is one big ship and a few themed cruises you can freely enjoy with your dog that we’ll elaborate on next.

The Most Pet-Friendly Cruise Lines and Their Policies

As mentioned above, most big cruise ships only allow service animals, excluding Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2. We’ve also included a section for small, themed cruises, ideal for spending time with your furry best friend. Without further stalling, here are the best dog friendly cruises we could find.

On the top of our list, we have Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2. By far, it’s the only cruise ship you can board with your dog to sail the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout its 180-year history, it’s well-known for accepting animals as passengers. 

While some animals were part of the crew, like the three cats hired to deal with the ship’s vermin, others were exotic guests, such as an elephant, a hippo, a raccoon, and a monkey. 

The ship and its amenities

The Queen Mary 2 is 1,132 feet long and big enough to accommodate 2691 guests and an 1173-person crew. Its luxurious design is enough to leave anyone in awe. It offers a wide space to enjoy many activities or simply unwind.

On Deck 2 and 3L, you’ll be mind blown by the Britannia restaurant, theater, casino, photo gallery, and illuminations. Deck 3 features an art gallery and chart room, while Decks 3 through 6 are designated for guest rooms.

On the middle ground at Deck 7, you will find the Carinthia lounge, Mareel Wellness & Beauty, Kings Court, and Grills Lounge. Deck 8 is perfect for leisure as it has a swimming pool, a library, and a bar. The Commodore club and penthouses are located on Deck 9, while Decks 10 and 11 are reserved for suits and staterooms.

We’ll elaborate more on Deck 12 as it has renowned dog kennels, but you’ll also find various deck games. Lastly, Deck 13 has a sunroof where you can enjoy a nice stroll and view the horizon. 

Room amenities

Since Queen Mary is a luxurious ship, expect deluxe amenities during your stay. Some of the things included in the rooms are satellite TVs, refrigerators, hair dryers, bathrobes, direct-dial telephones, and slippers. If you need anything during your stay, there’s 24/7 room service available, including a nightly turndown service with chocolate.

Pet care and policies

Queen Mary offers 24 kennels on Deck 12 for passengers traveling with pets. Although your furry companion won’t accompany you to the stateroom, you can rest easy knowing that the extraordinary staff will take care of it. Since they are trained in the White Star Academy, expect nothing less than the highest level of service.

If you want to spend time with your pet, you can visit the Owner’s Lounge during the designated visiting hours. Additionally, there’s a large outdoor area where the dogs regularly get their exercise and play from 3 PM to 6 PM. It’s decorated with a Liverpool lamppost and a New York fire hydrant, making them feel more at home.

During your pet’s stay, they’ll be given their own kennel, food and water bowl, delicious food and treats, and toys. In case of an emergency, there are protocols for their safety, including a designated life jacket.

Another outstanding cruise line is the Royal Caribbean, which only allows service dogs on its ships. They’ve been chosen as the Best Cruise Line Overall for 20 years straight by Travel Weekly due to their luxuriousness. Furthermore, they offer a wide range of travel options, including over 60 counties and 270 destinations. 

Royal Caribbean has a large fleet to choose from, including their award-winning Symphony, Mariner, Navigator, and Harmony ships. Although your experience may vary based on which ship you’ll cruise on, expect high-class accommodations and fine dining options. We highly recommend their Oasis Class and Amplified ships if you plan on traveling with this cruise line.

Depending on the ship you choose, you can find whole neighborhoods nestled inside the ship. If you feel like it, the company also provides themed cruises you can indulge yourself in. Some ships go as far as providing waterslides, dance floors, and even escape rooms. 

The rooms are divided into four categories: interior, outside, suites, and balcony. All the rooms come equipped with telephones, private baths and showers, TVs, vanities, and hair dryers.

While on your cruise, you can also stay in some breathtaking deluxe rooms. Some of them include the Room to Play, the Stateroom for Couples, Ultimate Family Suite, and the Royal Suite Class. The rooms come with free Wi-Fi, room service, and daily cleaning service. 

The Ultimate Family Suite is a two-stories accommodation, ideal for energetic families. You can enjoy tons of fun activities since there’s an in-room slide, video game systems, table tennis, and a jacuzzi. However, these rooms are only available onboard the Spectrum, Wonder, and Symphony ships.

On the other hand, the Royal Suite Class has three tiers to choose from: sea, sky, and star class. All of them include priority boarding, coastal kitchen dinners, bathrobes, kettles, and luxury bathroom amenities. 

Regarding their pet-friendliness, Royal Caribbean only sticks to service dogs. Since they’ll be able to accompany you in most public areas, including the dining room, you’ll have to keep them restrained on a leash or harness. However, dogs aren’t allowed in the spa, pool, or whirlpool due to safety reasons. 

It’s best to notify the Access Department about traveling with a service animal 30 days before departure. This way, they’ll have the time to make certain arrangements, such as providing a relief area and refrigerated space. 

The 4 by 4 relief area is shared with other service dogs that may be on the ship. Moreover, the crew is not required to care for your furry friend or provide it with food. That’s why you can bring food and bowls without an additional charge.

Another rule to follow is that you can’t leave the dog unattended in the stateroom, especially if you plan on exiting the ship while in a port. On their website , you can get all the needed information about the documentation required for traveling with your pet. Note that these requirements are based on country laws, not the cruise line itself.

Other noteworthy mentions that accept service dogs onboard are Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line .

Norwegian Cruise Line has a two weeks notice policy if you’re traveling with a service animal. You’ll also need to provide them with a vaccination record and check with the ports if there are any further requirements. Furthermore, even though they provide you with a relief sandbox, other amenities such as food, medications, and life jackets for your dog are your responsibility.

Carnival Cruise Line only accepts fully trained service dogs since they have a strict no-pets and no emotional support animals policy. Furthermore, you’ll be asked to show the required vaccination certificate as soon as you board the ship. Same as Norwegian Cruise, it’s advised that you check in with the ports for any further documentation needed before planning your trip.

Bow Wow Brunch Cruise

If you truly want a full experience cruising with your puppy, check out the Bow Wow Brunch Cruise in San Diego. You can enjoy this two-hour San Diego Bay cruise while absorbing the amazing view. It’s the same as a Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise, but you can bring your furry friend along. 

You’ll get the chance to enjoy a grandiose buffet with unlimited champagne while your pooch munches on the pet buffet. Furthermore, the yacht has a designated area on the sunroof where your dog can do its “business.” There are freshwater bowls for your pets, so you don’t have to worry about the heat. 

There are a few rules to follow while on the cruise, including one dog per person. Cleaning up after them is a must, and they also have to be on a leash and friendly toward other guests.

Last but not least, a portion of the revenue goes to the Helen Woodward Animal Center. This way, you can enjoy an amazing time and do a good deed at the same time.

Mercury’s Canine Cruise

If you want to enjoy a cruise around Chicago’s Riverwalk in Illinois with your dog in your lap, check out Mercury’s Canine Cruise. Discover the rich history and architecture through lively narration while basking in the sun for only $42. However, the price for your dog to accompany you is an additional $8.

This adventure comes with snacks, a water bowl, and a spacious outdoor area. However, make sure to obey the instructions and keep your pet on a leash. If you decide to indulge in this activity during October’s spooky season, you might also get some Halloween treats.

In conclusion, no matter how difficult it is to find dog-friendly cruises, there are still some great options out there. The first place is rightfully reserved for non-other than Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2. It’s the only big cruise ship allowing pets onboard while providing premium quality stay.

Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise, and Carnival accommodate only service animals, excluding emotional support dogs as well. If you want to experience a cruise side-by-side with your pooch, we recommend you try out some smaller themed cruises, such as Bow Wow Brunch and Mercury’s Canine Cruise. 

We hope this article provides you with all the needed information about cruising with your puppy. Set the sails high and enjoy your voyage!

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Pet-Friendly Cruises for Dog Owners: The Ultimate Guide

by Judith Eve | Jan 6, 2024 | Cruise Travel Tips

Pet owners who love to travel often face the challenge of finding suitable vacation options that allow them to bring their furry friends along. While many hotels and resorts now offer pet-friendly accommodations, the options for pet-friendly cruises have been limited. However, in recent years, there has been a growing demand for pet-friendly cruises, and some cruise lines have started to cater to this niche market.

Pet-friendly cruises offer dog owners the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing vacation with their four-legged companions. These cruises typically provide a range of amenities and services for pets, including onboard kennels, dog walking areas, and pet-friendly excursions. Some pet-friendly cruises even offer special menus and treats for dogs, as well as dog-sitting services, so owners can enjoy some time alone.

While pet-friendly cruises are still relatively uncommon, they are becoming more popular among pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. As more cruise lines start to offer pet-friendly options, it is likely that the number of pet-friendly cruises will continue to grow. For dog owners who want to enjoy a vacation with their pets, a pet-friendly cruise can be an excellent choice.

Choosing the Right Pet-Friendly Cruise

Planning a vacation with your furry friend can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, you and your pet can enjoy a memorable experience together. When choosing a pet-friendly cruise, there are several factors to consider to ensure that both you and your pet have an enjoyable time.

Understanding Pet Policies on Cruises

Before booking a pet-friendly cruise, it's essential to understand the pet policies of the cruise line. Different cruise lines have varying policies regarding pets, including the types of pets allowed, size restrictions, and documentation requirements. Some cruise lines only allow service animals, while others allow emotional support animals or trained pets.

Comparing Pet-Friendly Cruise Lines

When comparing pet-friendly cruise lines, it's essential to consider the amenities and services offered for pets. Some cruise lines have designated areas for pets, while others offer kennels or even a kennel master. The Queen Mary 2, for example, has a kennel for pets, and the kennel master takes care of the pets while their owners are away.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises also offer pet-friendly cruises, but their policies and amenities may differ from each other. It's essential to research and compar the policies and amenities of each cruise line before booking a pet-friendly cruise.

Accommodations for Pets

When booking a pet-friendly cruise, it's crucial to consider the accommodations available for pets. Some cruise lines offer designated areas for pets, while others have kennels or even staterooms that are pet-friendly. It's important to ensure that the accommodations are suitable for your pet's size and needs.

Activities and Amenities for Pets

Pet-friendly cruises offer various activities and amenities for pets, including fine dining and even a Bow Wow Brunch Cruise. It's essential to research and compare the activities and amenities offered by each cruise line to ensure that your pet will enjoy the experience.

In conclusion, choosing the right pet-friendly cruise requires careful consideration of the pet policies, amenities, and accommodations offered by each cruise line. With the right preparation, you and your furry friend can enjoy a memorable vacation together.

Preparing for Your Pet-Friendly Cruise

Going on a pet-friendly cruise with your furry friend can be an exciting experience. However, it is important to prepare beforehand to ensure that both you and your pet have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your pet-friendly cruise.

Health and Safety Requirements

Before embarking on a pet-friendly cruise, you need to ensure that your pet meets all the health and safety requirements. This includes getting the necessary vaccinations, obtaining a health certificate from your veterinarian, and carrying a pet passport if required. Some cruise lines may also require your pet to be microchipped for identification purposes.

It is important to note that each cruise line may have different health and safety requirements for pets. Thus, it is recommended to check with the cruise line beforehand to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and vaccinations.

Packing Essentials for Your Pet

When packing for your pet-friendly cruise, it is important to bring along all the essentials to keep your pet comfortable and happy. Some of the essentials include:

• Leash and collar
• Food and water bowls
• Enough food and treats for the duration of the cruise
• Medications and supplements, if required
• Toys and blankets to keep your pet entertained and comfortable
• Cleaning supplies to clean up after your pet

It is also recommended to bring along a first aid kit for your pet in case of any emergencies. Additionally, it is important to pack your pet's belongings in a sturdy and waterproof bag to prevent any damage.

In conclusion, preparing for a pet-friendly cruise requires careful planning and preparation. By following the above tips and ensuring that your pet meets all the health and safety requirements, you can have a memorable and enjoyable trip with your furry friend.

Onboard Experience with Your Pet

Traveling with a pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be a bit challenging. Luckily, pet-friendly cruises offer a variety of amenities to make your trip enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. Here are some things to keep in mind when bringing your pet onboard.

Dining with Your Pet

Many pet-friendly cruises offer options for dining with your pet. Some cruises have designated dining areas where pets are allowed, while others offer room service for pets. One example of a unique dining experience is the Bow Wow Brunch Cruise offered by some cruise lines, where dogs can enjoy a specially prepared brunch while their owners dine on a separate menu.

Pet Care Services Onboard

Pet care services are available on most pet-friendly cruises. These services may include a kennel master who can help with pet care and feeding, as well as a designated area for pets to play and socialize. Some cruises also offer pet-sitting services, so you can enjoy some time off while your pet is taken care of.

Socializing and Play Areas

Many pet-friendly cruises have designated public spaces where pets are allowed. These areas may include outdoor decks, designated play areas, and even pet-friendly lounges. It's important to note that not all areas of the ship may be pet-friendly, so be sure to check with the cruise line before bringing your pet into any public spaces.

Overall, pet-friendly cruises offer a variety of amenities to make your trip enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. From fine dining to pet care services, there are plenty of options to make your pet feel at home onboard. Just be sure to check with the cruise line before booking to ensure that all pets are allowed and to learn about any specific requirements or restrictions.

Special Cruises and Destinations

Themed Cruises for Pet Lovers

For the dog owners who want to take their furry friends on a unique vacation, themed cruises for pet lovers are a great option. One such cruise is the Canine Cruise hosted by the Mercury in Chicago. This cruise takes place on Lake Michigan and allows dogs on board to enjoy the scenic views of the city. Another option is the Dolly Steamboat in Arizona, which offers a pet-friendly cruise on Canyon Lake.

For those who want to explore nature with their pets, Acadian Nature Cruises in Maine offers a pet-friendly cruise that takes visitors around Acadia National Park. This cruise allows dogs on board and provides a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the park.

Pet-Friendly Shore Excursions

While the cruise ship is important, the shore excursions are also a major part of any cruise vacation. For pet owners, it is important to find shore excursions that are pet-friendly. Many cruise lines offer pet-friendly shore excursions, but it is important to make reservations in advance to ensure availability.

Some popular pet-friendly shore excursions include beach trips, hiking trails, and city tours. It is important to note that some excursions may have restrictions on the size or breed of dog allowed, so it is important to check with the cruise line before making reservations.

Overall, themed cruises and pet-friendly shore excursions offer a great opportunity for dog owners to enjoy a family vacation with their furry friends. With the right planning and reservations, a pet-friendly cruise can be a memorable experience for both the owner and their dog.

Travel Tips for Cruising with Pets

Cruising with your furry best friend can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that pets can experience anxiety and discomfort in unfamiliar environments. Here are some tips to help make your pet-friendly cruise a success:

Managing Pet Anxiety and Comfort

It's important to make sure your pet is comfortable and calm during the cruise. Here are some tips to help manage pet anxiety:

• Bring familiar items: Bring your pet's favorite toys, blankets, and bedding to help them feel more comfortable in the new environment.
• Consider medication: If your pet is prone to anxiety, talk to your vet about medication options to help keep them calm during the cruise.
• Take breaks: It's important to take frequent breaks to allow your pet to stretch their legs and get some fresh air.

Rules for Leashed Pets in Public Areas

Most pet-friendly cruises require pets to be leashed and under control at all times in public areas. Here are some rules to keep in mind:

• Clean up after your dog: Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog. Most cruise lines have designated areas for pet waste.
• Follow leash rules: Make sure your pet is always on a leash and under control. Most cruise lines require pets to be on a leash that is no longer than six feet.
• No pets in dining areas: Pets are not allowed in dining areas or other food service areas. However, many cruise lines have designated outdoor areas where pets are allowed.

By following these tips and rules, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable pet-friendly cruise for both you and your furry best friend.

Booking and Reservations

Booking a pet-friendly cruise requires a bit of research and planning, but it's worth it to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation for both you and your furry friend. In this section, we'll cover some tips and tricks for finding deals and discounts, as well as understanding cruise line pet reservations.

Finding Deals and Discounts

When booking a pet-friendly cruise, it's important to keep an eye out for deals and discounts. Many cruise lines offer promotions and special offers that can help you save money on your vacation. One way to find these deals is to sign up for the cruise line's email newsletter or follow them on social media. You can also check websites like Cruise Critic or Travelocity for current promotions.

Another way to save money on a pet-friendly cruise is to book during the off-season. Prices are typically lower during the shoulder season, which is the period between peak and off-peak season. For example, if you're planning a family vacation with your dog, consider booking a cruise in September or October instead of during the summer months.

Understanding Cruise Line Pet Reservations

Different cruise lines have different policies and procedures when it comes to pet reservations. Some cruise lines, like Cunard Cruise Lines and Princess Cruises, allow pets on board but require them to stay in kennels. Other cruise lines, like Disney Cruise Line, do not allow pets on board at all.

When making a pet reservation, it's important to read the cruise line's pet policy carefully and follow all instructions. You'll typically need to provide proof of vaccinations and health records for your pet, as well as pay a pet fee. Some cruise lines, like 1AVista Reisen and Corsica Ferries, require a deposit for pet reservations.

DFDS and Baltic Mini-Cruises are other cruise lines that allow pets on board. Before booking a pet-friendly cruise, it's important to research the specific cruise line's pet policy and make sure it fits your needs and budget.

Legal and Accessibility Considerations

Service animals and disability laws.

Service animals are dogs that are trained to do specific tasks for people with disabilities. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are allowed to accompany their owners in all areas where the public is allowed to go, including on cruise ships. This means that if a person with a disability has a service dog, they are legally allowed to bring their dog on a cruise ship with them.

It is important to note that the ADA only recognizes dogs as service animals, and not emotional support animals. Additionally, the service dog must be trained to do a specific task that directly relates to the person's disability. For example, a person with a visual impairment may have a service dog that is trained to guide them through crowds or around obstacles.

Cruise ships are required to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, including those with service dogs. This may include providing accessible cabins or staterooms, as well as designated relief areas on the ship. It is recommended that passengers with service dogs inform the cruise line in advance of their travel to ensure that appropriate accommodations can be made.

Emotional Support Animals and Cruise Policies

Emotional support animals (ESAs) are animals that provide comfort and support to their owners, but are not trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability. While the ADA does not recognize ESAs as service animals, some cruise lines may allow them on board as long as they meet certain requirements.

Each cruise line has their own policies regarding ESAs, and may require documentation from a healthcare provider or a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that the animal is necessary for the person's emotional well-being. Additionally, some cruise lines may require that the animal is trained to behave appropriately in public spaces and does not pose a threat to other passengers.

It is important for passengers with ESAs to check with the cruise line in advance to ensure that they meet the requirements for bringing their animal on board. It is also recommended that passengers with ESAs inform the cruise line in advance of their travel to ensure that appropriate accommodations can be made.

Overall, while there are legal and accessibility considerations to keep in mind when bringing a service animal or ESA on a cruise ship, many cruise lines are accommodating and welcoming to pets. Passengers with disabilities or emotional support needs can enjoy a relaxing vacation with their furry companions by their side.

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.

Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.

Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.

Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.

Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.

Culinary-Focused Cruises for Foodies in Asia: Satisfy Your Taste Buds on the High Seas

Culinary-focused cruises have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among foodies who want to...

Carnival Cruise New Orleans: A Friendly Guide to Exploring the Big Easy by Sea

Carnival Cruise New Orleans is a popular cruise line that offers a wide range of exciting and fun-filled activities...

Solo Cabin Booking Options on European Cruises: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Vacation

Solo travelers looking to book European cruises have a range of options when it comes to cabin accommodations. While...

Don't Miss Out on Cruise info!

The latest Cruisington Post news delivered to your inbox.

Contact Us - Disclaimer - Curation Policy - Amazon Affiliate Disclosure - Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

Pet-Friendly Cruises: How to Cruise with Your Pet

Pet friendly cruises are on the rise, with major cruise lines such as Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 accommodating pet owners and their pets. This guide provides an overview of the available pet friendly cruise options, covering details about pet accommodations and amenities. It also outlines the policies for service animals and emotional support animals, noting that while most cruise lines cater only to service animals, there are exceptions like Queen Mary 2, which extends its hospitality to pets in general.

Embarking on Pet Friendly Cruise Lines

Queen Mary 2: A Premier Haven for Pet Enthusiasts 

The Queen Mary 2's Transatlantic Crossings , under the Cunard Line, is a beacon of luxury and comfort for pet lovers seeking to explore pet-friendly cruises. This cruise ship welcomes cats and dogs, providing an oasis where every need is met. 

The ship is equipped with 24 spacious kennels, providing pets with a comfortable stay overseen by a professional kennel master. The kennel master's role is to oversee this care, affording owners the peace of mind to fully engage in the cruise experience. Pets receive top-notch treatment, from gourmet food to festive-themed events, mirroring the enjoyment of their owners. The Queen Mary 2 allows multiple visiting times throughout the days for frequent interactions, ensuring pet owners can make the most of their cruise while being reassured of their pets' wellbeing. A selection of amenities ensures that pets enjoy the voyage alongside their owners. 

Cunard's "Pets on Deck" program includes all pet food (and special foods upon request), fresh-baked biscuits, a choice of beds and blankets, and even a coat with a QM2 logo. As part of the enhanced program, traveling dogs and cats also receive a complimentary gift pack featuring a frisbee, name tag, food dish, and scoop, a complimentary portrait with pet owners, a crossing certificate, and a personalized cruise card. 

On the Queen Mary 2, cat owners must have two kennels, one for the cat itself and one for its litter box. This two-kennel rule also applies to large sized dogs, if your dog is taller than 39 inches, it is advisable to get two kennels to make sure your dog can fit comfortably. Dogs like huskies and labs are usually over the size limit and require two kennels.

Where Do Dogs Go on Cruise Ships?

On cruise ships like Queen Mary 2, pets are housed in secure, well-maintained kennels. Dedicated visitation times are allocated, allowing pet owners to have specific visiting hours to bond with their pets.  

Service dogs, however, are permitted to stay in the cabins with their owners, with designated areas assigned to cater to their needs, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable journey for all.

Can You Bring a Dog on a Cruise?

Yes, you can bring your dog on a cruise with the Cunard Cruise Line on the Queen Mary 2. Other than service dogs, the Queen Mary 2 is the only dog friendly cruise available.

Can Dogs Come on Carnival Cruise?

No, the Carnival Cruise Line prohibits dogs from boarding their ships. However, service dogs are the exception and are allowed on Carnival Cruises, acknowledging the essential support they provide to individuals with additional support needs. For travelers looking to cruise with their furry friends, consider other cruise lines that offer pet friendly accommodations and amenities, like the Queen Mary 2.

Does Royal Caribbean Allow Dogs?

Royal Caribbean doesn’t allow dogs, with the exception of service animals. 

How to Cruise With Your Service Animals

Most cruise lines, including reputable names like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , extend a warm welcome to service animals, recognizing their vital role. Service animals are granted access to the majority of public spaces onboard, ensuring that every passenger can fully partake in and enjoy the plethora of facilities, amenities, and services available onboard. These include dining areas, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities, allowing passengers and their service animals to experience the cruise in its entirety.

The policies regarding emotional support animals vary across different cruise lines. Some cruise lines are more accommodating, such as Cunard, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises, allowing them onboard with proper documentation.

Tips for Taking Pets on a Cruise With You

Embarking on a cruise with pets requires meticulous planning and consideration. The following are some strategies to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend.

Diligent Research

Look into the specific policies, offerings, and pet friendly cruise options available. Consider the type of pets allowed, your pet’s needs, and evaluate the array of facilities provided to assess whether pet friendly cruising is right for you and your pet.

Packing the Essentials

For pet owners going on the Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossings, most of the pet care essentials are included. As such, bring any necessary medications, comfort items, or other unique items for your pet to avoid any inconveniences during the journey. 

If you are taking a non-pet friendly cruise with your service dog, it is advisable to bring all necessary items that your dog needs day-to-day.

Acclimatizing Your Pet

Your pet will be in a new environment with a lot of unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. Not bringing items from home to make them comfortable, such as their bed, toys, and usual food, can increase their anxiety. Preparing your pet for their stay in a kennel allows for a smooth cruise experience, especially on a ship like the Queen Mary 2, where pets are welcome. 

The first step in ensuring a comfortable experience for your pet on a cruise is by getting them accustomed to being in a kennel. To do so, introduce your pet to a kennel before the cruise, allowing them to get comfortable and feel secure in a kennel.

While onboard, make the most of visitation times with your pet in the kennel. Bring along your pet's favorite treats and toys to create a sense of familiarity and comfort. Additionally, communicate your pet's specific needs and preferences to the kennel master, ensuring that your furry companion feels at ease during their time in the kennel.

By taking these steps, you can help your pet transition smoothly to the kennel environment and enjoy a stress-free cruise vacation.

Common Mistakes Pet Owners Make on Pet Friendly Cruises

While planning a cruise vacation with pets, be mindful of potential pitfalls. The following is a list of some of the most important factors to keep in mind when planning a cruise with your pets.

Neglecting Cruise Line Policies

Each cruise line has its own specific set of rules when it comes to pets onboard. This can include restrictions on the types or sizes of pets allowed, the number of pets you can bring, and the areas of the cruise ship where pets are permitted. Make sure to read these policies carefully to avoid any surprises.

Overlooking Essential Documentation

Just like their human companions, pets often need documentation when traveling, especially on a cruise ship. This can include vaccination records, a recent health certificate, and a pet passport if traveling internationally. Make sure you have all the required documents well in advance of your departure date.

When traveling with a service dog, be sure to bring documentation proving their role.

Misjudging Packing Needs

Make sure while planning and packing for your trip that you look into the specific sailing you're taking and make a list of all the supplies you may need for your pet along the way. Some trips may be more inclusive in terms of what supplies are provided so bring some of the essentials with you. Depending on your trip this may include food, dog bags, leashes, kennels, and others depending on your pet's needs and what is provided by the cruise.

Venturing Across the Seas with Furry Companions

Cruising with pets presents a unique set of challenges and joys that can enhance the travel experience for pet owners. The Queen Mary 2 offers a level of service and care that ensures pets enjoy their journey across the sea as much as their owners do. From the comprehensive "Pets on Deck" program to the attentive services of a dedicated kennel master, Cunard Line has set the bar high for those wishing to travel with their beloved animals.

While not all cruise lines accommodate pets, the availability of services for service animals across major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises ensures that those with disabilities can travel with their indispensable companions with ease and comfort.

As with any travel plans involving pets, it is paramount for pet owners to engage in thorough research, to pack with care, and acclimate their pets to the unique environment of a cruise ship. This proactive approach, coupled with an understanding of cruise line policies and the needs of your pet, can lead to an unforgettable cruise experience filled with wonderful memories for both you and your pet.

Expert Author: Bruce Parkinson

Bruce has written about the travel industry for over three decades, focusing on ocean and river cruising in recent years. Currently Senior Editor for TravelPulse Canada, Bruce is also a travel communications consultant and contributor to the popular CruiseRadio.net.

All About Pet-Friendly Cruises: Where to Sail and How

I’m a huge fan of cruises. 

I’ve heard the argument that cruises are boring and make you feel claustrophobic, but cruise ships are massive and have plenty to do on board. There are activities and entertainment, and time is broken up with port stops and docking. 

Plus, the majority are all inclusive, so your food, lodging and entertainment are taken care of. There’s no need to plan out what restaurants to try, or what hotel to stay in. Pretty much every aspect of your trip is covered. It’s a great option for people who want to focus on enjoyment and relaxation, instead of planning.

Luckily for us dog lovers, times are changing, and your furry friend can now join you out on the water. Pet-friendly cruises are popping up everywhere. And I’m not talking about excursions limited to a few hours. I’m talking real, multi-night cruise ships. You’ll still get to spend days on the water and enjoy all that cruise ships have to offer, and you won’t have to leave your pup behind. 

Help your pup grow sea legs on one of these pet-friendly cruises.

Article Contents

Queen Mary II 

Route: New York – England and back.

The Queen Mary II is probably the most well known of all the pet-friendly cruises out there.

The ocean liner travels between New York and Southhampton (on the south coast of England), and is operated by the British cruise line Cunard. 

The transatlantic crossing allows cats and dogs, who are welcomed aboard with a gift pack that includes toys, food dishes, name tags and a complimentary photo shoot. 

Pets stay in a kennel suite with a comfy bed and blanket, and are cared for around the clock by a kennel master.  They’re given regular feedings, walks, and cleanings and have an indoor play area to stretch their legs.  

You can visit your furry pal during visiting hours, and take them out for walks and to play. The QM2 even organizes a special “Dog Lovers Meeting” where pets and pet parents can socialize on deck. 

The trip takes seven nights, and the ship includes fine dining, live music, nightly entertainment and a library. Book early to reserve your spot, as there is limited space in the kennel. 

Book here .

1AVista Reisen

Route: throughout Europe.

1AVista Reisen doesn’t just tolerate dogs on board, they make their cruises all about the dog! 

Their dog-friendly cruises visit cities in Holland, Austria and Germany. They sail through Holland’s rivers and canals and over the Rhine, Main and Moselle, as well as the Danube in Eastern Europe. 

1AVista Reisen curates a dog-themed trip for dog owners and lovers that includes pack walks, socializing and access to all parts of the ship. There’s a small dog meadow on the sun deck, dog bowls and fresh water throughout the boat and in your cabin, and  treats at the front desk. There’s even a dog trainer on board who is available to share tips and tricks.

The company offers a myriad of dog-friendly cruises to choose from, ranging in price and location. Cruises are usually seven to eight days long, and are all-inclusive. Every cabin comes equipped with AC, a flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Be on the look out, because their dog-friendly trips have become so popular that they offer new routes and ports every year. 

Dogs are allowed to stay in cabin with you throughout the journey. They cannot exceed a shoulder height of 50cm. Only one dog is permitted in each booked cabin. Certain breeds are not permitted aboard, including Pitbull, Rottweiler and Bulldog.

Book here . 

Corsica Ferries

Want to go Mediterranean island hopping with your pup? Corsica Ferries offers ferry crossings from France or Italy to Corsica, Sardinia, Elba, Majorca or Sicily. 

Crossings vary from a few hours to overnight. You can island hop and go from one port to the next, staying in each place as long or as little as you like. 

Dogs are allowed in all public areas, and even restaurants. There are pet-friendly cabins on most of their ferries, and cabin floors that are covered with linoleum. Cats and other small pets are permitting as well, but they must be kept in a cage.

There are restau rants and bars on board, as well as shops and game rooms. 

Prices start at €17 per dog and crossing.

Tallink Silja Line

Route: between Sweden, Finland, Latvia, and Estonia.

Tallink offers Baltic mini-cruises that travel between Stockholm and one of three cities, Helsinki, Tallinn or Riga. There’s also a Helsinki to Tallinn route. 

The Silja line offers many am enities, including loads of dining options, a lounge, shops and even a spa on board. For the pups, there’s access to the deck for walks and dog-relief stations. 

Pets are allowed to stay in the cabin with you.  You can either sail roundtrip (two night cruise) or go one way, in either direction. The ships sail daily, all year-round. 

You can book a dog-friendly cabin and pay a fee of €32 per pet (€16 each way). There’s a maximum of three pets allowed per cabin, with no size restrictions, but be aware that certain “dangerous” animals are restricted.

Pets are required to have EU pet passports. There are a limited number of pet-friendly cabins available on all ships, so book early! 

Route: England – France or England – Holland and back.

DFDS offers a one night, mini-cruise to Amsterdam! 

The company is so pet-friendly, they offer 50% off pet travel during National Pet Month (April). They also accept a variety of pets on board, including rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs, as well as cats, dogs and ferrets. 

Their mini-cruise goes between Newcastle and Holland, and your pet is allowed to stay with you in your cabin. Pet-friendly cabins are suitable for up to two medium-sized dogs, and have vinyl flooring instead of carpet. 

There’s a designated dog deck, with astroturf and gravel for easy bathroom breaks. Plus, there’s plenty onboard to keep you busy. The ship has two bars, a nightclub, a casino, two cinemas showing six films, an arcade, a shop, a coffee shop and kids play area.

Pro tip: pre-book your meals to save money. 

Dogs are charged £25 per night, per dog, and a pet passport or third country certificate showing a microchip and rabies vaccine are required for the crossing. Be sure to book pets in advance, as pet-friendly cabins are limited.

Pets are welcome on all DFDS routes, including shorter crossings to places in ​​France, Belgium, Germany, Scandinavia​, Poland​ and Lithuania​. Some routes offer kennels, while others allow your pet to remain with you in your car. Check individual routes for terms. 

Your Pet-Friendly Cruise Questions Answered

Is royal caribbean pet-friendly.

No, Royal Carribbean is not pet-friendly.

Royal Caribbean International welcomes service dogs on all ships, but they do not accept pets.

Is Carnival Cruise pet-friendly?

No, Carnival Cruises are not pet-friendly. Carnival Cruise Line only permits service and/or working dogs on board their ships. Therapy and/or companion dogs, or service dogs in training are not permitted onboard.

Is there a dog-friendly cruise to Hawaii?

As far as I know, there are no pet-friendly cruises that go to Hawaii.

Click here for more pet-friendly travel information.

Pin for later!

Similar Posts

Year Of The Dog: 52 Weeks Of Dog-Friendly Activities

A year of spending time with your dog is a year well spent. Enjoy these 52 dog-friendly activities with your best furry friend. 

Boogie’s Bucket List

Do dogs suffer from wanderlust? Are they bit by fleas, ticks, and the travel bug? Boogie seems to think so! Check out his bucket list.

Dog-Friendly Apple Picking Near NYC

Nothing says #fallvibes like some good old fashioned apple picking. Grab your pooch, and do some dog-friendly apple picking near New York City. 

Are Dogs Allowed on the NYC Subway?

The subway is the easiest, and cheapest, way to get around the five boroughs. But are dogs allowed on the subway? Find out!

Gifts for the New York Dog

City Sniffers romping around the concrete jungle will love this selection of goods. Fuhgettaboutit! Here are the best gifts for the New York Dog.

A Complete List of Dog-Friendly Drive-In Theaters in LA

There are a few dog-friendly drive-in theaters across Los Angeles. Here’s a list of LA drive-in theaters that welcome your furry friend too.

Hi Can you please help me with my pug travel from Hyderabad (India) to Sfo ( California) not as cargo but in passenger cabin?? As per my knowledge they should be in cargo for long flights and I don’t want to risk this option.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Where Have We Been

Dog-Friendly New York City Dog-Friendly Brazil Dog-Friendly Boston Dog-Friendly Philadelphia Dog-Friendly Baltimore

Check It Out

About Privacy Policy Disclosure & Disclaimer Contact

Looking For Something?

Affiliates disclosure.

boogiethepug.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, audible.com, and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, the owner of this site earns a commission from qualifying purchases.

Travel Tips

Get Inspired How To Save For A Trip How To Plan A Dog-Friendly Trip Flying With Your Pet Get The Right Dog Gear Pet Friendly Accommodations Pet Friendly Destinations Roadtrips With Your Pet

Get the Latest Woof in Pet Travel

The Best Pet-Friendly Cruises

If you have been searching for the ideal pet-friendly cruise option for you and your beloved pet, you are likely aware of how difficult they can be to find. Pet-friendly cruises that allow both dogs and cats to join are a rarity.

They are so rare, in fact, that only one major cruise line sailing the ocean offers pet-friendly cruises where your pets, dogs or cats, are welcomed as fellow passengers. But that is only allowed on one cruise itinerary.

However, animal lovers need not fret. Fortunately, there are several ways to enjoy a cruise and give your pets the affinity they deserve. In this post, we will provide you with more information regarding pet-friendly cruises and loopholes in the “no pets allowed” rule. 

Although most cruise lines don’t offer official pet-friendly cruises, many of them allow service animals to join their owners on the ship.

Which Cruise Lines Offer Pet-friendly Cruises?

Queen mary 2.

Only one ocean cruise line offers true pet-friendly cruises: Queen Mary 2 of Cunard Cruise Line. Pet-friendly cruises take place on Queen Mary 2 on particular transatlantic sailings between Southhampton and New York. These cruises welcome your dog or cat to join the voyage.

However, it is worth noting that your pet is not allowed to cuddle with you in your stateroom. Pets are held in their very own kennel on deck 12 of Queen Mary 2, where a dedicated kennel master will provide food, care, walks, and any other needs your furry friend may have.

Feeding bowls and pet beds are given, and your dog or cat will have ample playtime. You will be allowed to visit them during designated visiting hours every day. The kennel area features a nice little outdoor area with an enclosed playroom and an owner’s lounge.

If you are interested in taking your pet along on a pet-friendly cruise, you better book early, as Queen Mary 2 only allows 24 pets in total on board. Cunard Cruise Line recommends booking your stateroom a whole year in advance to secure a cozy kennel for your pet.

Pet owners can expect to pay around $800 for a small cage and $1000 for a cage made for larger dogs, such as golden retrievers. One animal is allowed inside each cage. Cats are also catered to, but they require two kennels—one kennel for the cat itself and one for its litter box. Cat lovers are then required to pay for both kennels, which amounts to around $1600 in total.

What’s Included in Queen Mary 2’s Pet-friendly Cruise?

Along with a kennel equipped with a bed and the food and water bowls provided, every dog is taken to an outdoor area on Deck 12, where they can get some exercise. Cats remain indoors during the cruise.

The cruise ships that complete transatlantic sailings between the U.S. and the U.K. contain a lovely outside area featuring both a red fire hydrant and a lamp post, so all the furry friends can choose their preferred toilet.

Pets are generally allowed outdoors between 3 pm and 6 pm in the afternoon. Pet owners can visit their pets onboard during this time or during the visiting hours, which are from 8 am to 10 am, 11 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 6 pm, and 8 pm to 8:30 pm every day. Pet owners can feed their dogs and pet them during these times or choose to have the kennel master help out.

During the cruise, one morning will be allocated to photoshoots with pets and their owners. A professional photographer will provide cute props, like a Queen Mary life ring and even a Queen Mary 2 jacket for your pet.

The kennel master and their assistants will wear the iconic red bellhop uniforms of Cunard and provide pet owners with mini versions of these uniforms for their pets.

Pet parents can order special snacks for their pets on their room service accounts that will be delivered to their kennels. Food will be provided, but if your pet has certain dietary requirements, you are responsible for bringing their pet food with you on the cruise ship.

If an emergency should occur, all pets board have their own pet muster stations and lifejackets. The kennel master will oversee the protocols put in place to keep all pets safe.

Booking A Pet-friendly Cruise

To ensure you get a spot, you’ll have to book at least 12 months in advance, whether directly through Cunard or by means of a travel agent.

You are required to provide all the relevant information on all the pets that will be joining you, including dietary restrictions, feeding requirements, and any applicable medical conditions, along with the corresponding medication.

The cruise line only allows 24 animals on board, and the kennels are often booked at 90% capacity, so time is of the essence.

1AVisa Reisen Dog-friendly River Cruises

River cruises run by 1AVista Reisen are the only dog-friendly cruises available in Europe. This cruise line operates several dog-friendly river cruises every year in the Netherlands and Germany. Although German is the primary language on these cruise ships, the crew is required to be fluent in English and can provide assistance when needed.

What’s Included in a Dog-Friendly River Cruise?

Instead of being restricted to kennels, your dog will join you in one of the pet-friendly cabins onboard. One large dog or two smaller dogs are permitted to stay in all pet-friendly cabins.

A portion of the sun deck features some plants and grass, which serves as a dog meadow on these dog-friendly cruises. There are several opportunities to take your dog on a walk throughout the day, and trainers are available for assistance.

Dog-friendly Baltic Mini-Cruise with Tallink Silja Line

The abundance of ferry crossings in Europe presents another great way to cruise with your pet onboard. Taking two ferry crossings right after each other is almost like a mini-cruise with your pet.

Many passengers cruising with Tallink Silja Line took the opportunity to go on a cruise of two nights, which included a whole day to discover the beautiful sights of Helsinki.

Tallink Silja Line offers many options for pet owners to take a Baltic mini-cruise. There are virtually always cruise ships sailing from Tallinn, Helsinki, Turku, and Stockholm.

What’s Included in a Tallink Silja Line Baltic Mini-cruise?

Although kennels are available on some of these cruises, many pet lovers choose to keep their dogs with them in dog-friendly cabins. These cabins are limited, so be sure to book well in advance.

A fee of approximately €32 applies to dog-friendly cabins, and because you’ll likely spend a bit more time in your cabin than on other cruises, we recommend opting for a higher-class cabin with windows.

The upper deck has a lovely dog exercise section with a sandpit where your dogs can relieve themselves. If the weather allows it, you and your pooch can enjoy a refreshing drink on the Promenade overlooking the water.

Although dogs and cats are not allowed to enter the indoor restaurants and bars on the ship, the crew is generally relaxed about walking your dog through the ship’s indoor areas.

Though not pet-friendly, some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean cruise line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruises, permit passengers to bring a service animal along on a cruise vacation but impose certain restrictions to this allowance based on the cruise ship and the ship’s itinerary. They offer, by definition, service dog-friendly cruises.

Which Cruise Lines Allow Service Animals?

Royal caribbean.

Royal Caribbean allows a service dog to tend to a passenger with disabilities. Although the cruise line does not demand any documentation proving the animal is certified as a service pet, they do require all service animals to be dogs. Passengers’ service dogs are permitted in all the public areas of the ship, including the dining rooms.

Royal Caribbean cruises do not, however, provide food for the service animals onboard. Cruise ships offer areas that contain mulch in addition to many other dog-friendly areas where your pet can roam.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises allows only working service dogs on their cruise ships. Their regulations stipulate that service dogs that are still training are not allowed onboard, along with emotional support animals or other service animals besides dogs.

Passengers must provide all the appropriate documents and vaccination certificates for their service dogs when they board. A Carnival Cruise employee will review and validate these documents before passengers board.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line allows service animals aboard according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, but it does not permit emotional support animals. Passengers with service dogs are required to provide proof of their dog’s vaccination status in the form of either an International Health certificate or a USDA.

The cruise line doesn’t provide food, life jackets, or medication for any service dogs, so their owners must pack that for the cruise.

Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Lines allows service animals on their cruise ships, provided they are kept on a leash and controlled at all times. Some areas are not open to service animals, including the pools, and no animals are allowed to be left alone in the cabins.

The Cruise line also doesn’t provide food or any special care for the service animals onboard. Passengers are required to provide the cruise line with their service animals’ documentation and permits before the ship is scheduled to set sail, including all documentation needed for each port in the cruise ship’s itinerary.

The Difference between Pets, Service Dogs, and Emotional Support Animals

Most people know that pets are simple, much-loved animals considered family members. Pets are not kept to provide any form of treatment, and virtually anyone can obtain a pet without getting a doctor’s permission. A pet is simply an animal that acts as a feline or canine companion.

There is also a major distinction between emotional support animals, service animals, and therapy animals. Service animals are typically dogs that have been specifically trained to execute specific tasks the owner cannot perform themselves. For instance, a guide dog is a service animal that helps visually impaired individuals.

Therefore, service animals are permitted in most public spaces. Service animals are allowed in places other animals, such as emotional support animals, are not.

Emotional support animals, on the other hand, are not specifically trained to perform a set of tasks, and there aren’t many limitations applied to such animals. Emotional support animals can be anything from dogs and cats to birds and ponies, but emotional support dogs are the most common.

The Fair Housing Act stipulates all laws related to emotional support animals in the U.S. and acts to protect the owners and the animals regarding their permitted living spaces.

A therapy dog can be any dog that fits specific criteria and provides a form of non-physical support, such as emotional support, to its owner. Most dogs can effectively qualify as therapy dogs according to this definition. Quite a large number of people who seek emotional support opt for a therapy dog to treat debilitation or mental pain.

Latest Articles

96 Best and Fun Things To Do In Dupont Circle

59 Best and Fun Things To Do In The Eastern Shore, Maryland

94 Best and Fun Things To Do In Delmarva Peninsula, U.S.

95 Best and Fun Things To Do In Downtown Raleigh, North Carolina

97 Best and Fun Things To Do In Southeast Michigan, Michigan

97 Best and Fun Things To Do In Essex, England

5 of the Best Dog-Friendly Cruises

Last Updated on February 1, 2023

If you’re traveling the world, you need unique ways to get from points A to B.

And for some, cruises are the perfect option! But what if you’re with your dog? Are there dog-friendly cruises you can take Fido on?

Today, we explore five incredible dog-friendly cruises that will pamper both you and your pooch

Table of Contents

Top Dog-Friendly Cruises Around the World

1. cunard cruise lines.

Bring your dog on a pet-friendly vacation onboard the Cunard Cruise Lines . They have a long history of 180 years, and Cunard Cruise Lines are popular due to their transatlantic cruises. They do offer a pet-friendly cruise onboard the Queen Mary 2, and the experience is limited to just cats and dogs. Owners will have time daily to visit their dogs while onboard this pet-friendly cruise.

Key features : Dedicated kennel and play area, welcome gift pack, and experienced Kennel Master.

2. Dolly Steamboat

Are you thinking of visiting the Arizona flats with your dog? Bring them on board the Dolly Steamboat . It allows you to bring your dog on board while taking a peaceful cruise around the majestic National Forest.

Key features : Dinner with your dog, stunning and picturesque, Instagram-worthy scenes.

3. Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruise

The Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruise is a famous cruise line that offers 90-minute canine cruises that brings you and your dog to places such as the Chicago Harbor as well as the popular lakes nearby. It is worthwhile to note that they are the only cruise line in Chicago that allows dogs on board.

Key features : 90-minute cruises, water bowls provided, paper-lined restroom for dogs, the only pet-friendly cruise in Chicago.

4. Acadian Nature Cruises

The Acadian Nature Cruises offers a pet-friendly vacation onboard the Acadian. The 2-hour scenic route will bring you to places like the Egg Rock Lighthouse as well as the islands of Frenchman Bay. You can also view the breathtaking scenery of the Acadia National Park too.

Key features: Short 2-hour cruises, heated cabin in case it gets too cold, able to view marine life as well as eagles that soar through the area.

5. Argosy Cruises

The Argosy Cruises does offer a limited time only cruise during the festive season, but it is worthwhile to note that the experience it provides is truly amazing. Dogs and their owners can get to enjoy buffet gourmet meals that is specially catered by The Dining Dog Café. This is the ultimate way to celebrate the festive season with your dogs!

Key features : Dog-friendly gourmet buffet. Enough said!

As you can see, vacations can be less boring with these pet-friendly cruises. It can be fun for you and your dog. But always remember that you will need to be responsible for the dog’s safety. Bring along their leash, medications (if any) as well as food items just in case the dog gets hungry while onboard the cruise.

About the Author:

Mira is a dog lover and writer. She has two dogs of her own and loves taking them camping and hiking.

Can Dogs Go on Cruises? Your Guide to Pet-Friendly Cruising

Hey there, fellow cruise enthusiasts and dog lovers! We’re all familiar with the call of the sea—the siren song that promises adventure and relaxation.

But as the trend of pet owners traveling with their dogs continues to grow, there’s one question on every dog lover’s mind: Can dogs go on cruises? It’s high time we delve into this doggone delightful topic. So, leash up your four-legged friends, and let’s embark on a voyage to find you a pet-friendly cruise !

Can Dogs Go on Cruises?

Yes, dogs can go on cruises! In fact, many pet-friendly cruise lines are making it easier than ever for pet owners to bring their furry friends along for the ride. However, the rules and policies for bringing dogs on board cruise ships vary among cruise lines, and not all cruises are pet-friendly.

So, if you’re a dog lover looking to sail the high seas with your canine companion, it’s important to do some research and find out which cruise lines are accommodating of our furry friends.

Cruise Lines’ Policies on Pets

When it comes to cruising with your furry friend, the policies differ depending on whether your pet is a regular pet, a service dog, or an emotional support animal.

Regular Pets

Cruise lines are generally hesitant to allow regular pets onboard. The confined spaces of a cruise ship, coupled with the potential for pets to trigger allergies in other passengers, create health and safety concerns. Additionally, pets could experience stress due to unfamiliar environments and interactions with strangers or other animals.

Service Animals

In contrast, service animals, which are trained to assist individuals with disabilities, are typically welcomed onboard most cruise ships. They are considered essential for the well-being and mobility of their owners. Therefore, many cruise lines make exceptions for service animals, allowing them to accompany passengers in their cabins and public areas of the ship.

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals provide companionship and emotional aid to people with special cognitive or emotional needs. However, they aren’t specifically trained to assist with tasks related to a disability. Consequently, most cruise lines have more restrictive policies regarding emotional support animals, often not permitting them onboard.

Service Dogs on Cruise Ships

Definitions and Qualifications

Service Dogs: These dogs are individually trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. Their roles can include guiding blind individuals, alerting deaf people to sounds, or providing assistance with mobility. They undergo rigorous training to ensure they can effectively aid their owners.

Emotional Support Animals: These animals provide companionship and emotional support to individuals with mental or emotional conditions. Unlike service animals, they aren’t trained to perform specific tasks related to disabilities.

Therapy Dogs: Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and emotional support to multiple individuals, typically in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, or schools. They are not considered service animals and do not have the same rights as service animals.

Cruise Lines’ Acceptance of Service Dogs

Most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean , Princess Cruises , and Celebrity Cruises , allow a service animal onboard. These dogs are considered essential for their owners’ well-being and mobility.

To bring working service dogs on a cruise, passengers typically need to provide proper documentation that proves the dog is a trained service animal. This documentation might include certification from a recognized training organization, a letter from a healthcare provider, or other relevant records .

While service dogs are generally allowed in all public areas and cabins, there may be specific restrictions or accommodations in place. For example, cruise lines might designate a relief area for your service dog or require them to be on a leash at all times . It’s essential to check with your chosen cruise line for their specific policies and accommodations for a service animal.

Pet-Friendly Cruises

Cruising is no longer just for two-legged travelers. While most cruise lines have strict policies regarding pets, there are still options for those who can’t bear to leave their furry companions behind.

Cunard Line Queen Mary 2

If you’re looking to sail the high seas with your canine companion, look no further than the Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2. This luxurious ship boasts a unique “Pets on Deck” program that caters to dog lovers and their furry friends.

The Queen Mary 2 features 12 spacious kennels that can accommodate both small and larger dogs . These kennels are in high demand, so it’s crucial to book well in advance. A dedicated Kennel Master oversees the care and well-being of the dogs on board.

The ship offers a variety of amenities for dogs, including an outdoor play area with an authentic British lamppost and a fire hydrant. Inside the kennel area, there are comfy beds, toys, and even a choice of premium pet food. Dogs are pampered with grooming services , and owners can visit during designated visiting hours to spend quality time with their four-legged friends.

Application Process: To bring your dog on board, you need to complete an application form detailing your dog’s breed, size, and any special requirements. The Kennel Master reviews applications to ensure the safety and comfort of all dogs on the ship.

Costs and Special Requirements: The “Pets on Deck” program comes with a price, typically ranging from $800 to $1,000, depending on your pet’s size and the length of the cruise. Dogs must be microchipped, have up-to-date vaccinations, and comply with any additional health and safety requirements set by the Cunard Line.

Ferries and Other Options

While the Queen Mary 2 is an excellent option for transatlantic sailings, there are other pet-friendly options for shorter trips or specific regions.

Brittany Ferries and Holland America offer pet-friendly cabins on select routes , allowing you to travel with your furry companion in the comfort of your cabin. These ferries typically offer designated relief areas, feeding bowls, and even a litter tray for cats.

Small-Scale Cruise Operators: Some small-scale cruise operators, especially those specializing in private charters or river cruises, might allow pets onboard. These operators often provide more personalized services and accommodations, making it easier for pet owners to travel with their furry friends.

Accommodations, Amenities, and Costs: Accommodations and amenities vary depending on the operator and the type of vessel. Costs can range from a small additional fee to a more substantial surcharge, depending on the size of the pet and the length of the journey.

In conclusion, while most cruise lines have strict policies regarding pets, there are still options for pet owners who want to cruise with their furry friends. Whether it’s a transatlantic journey on the Queen Mary 2 or a short ferry ride, there are pet-friendly options available to suit your needs.

Preparing Your Dog for a Cruise

Taking your furry friend on a cruise is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for both you and your pup.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

Ensuring your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations is crucial for a successful cruise. Before setting sail, take note of the following requirements:

• Vaccinations: Most cruise lines and countries have specific vaccination requirements for dogs, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Be sure to consult your cruise line and the countries you’ll be visiting for a comprehensive list of required vaccinations.
• Health Certificate: In addition to vaccination records, many cruise lines and countries require a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. This certificate typically needs to be issued within a certain time frame before departure, usually 7 to 10 days, and it should confirm that your dog is free of contagious diseases and fit for travel.
• Potential Health Risks: While cruising, your dog may be exposed to different environments, climates, and potential health risks. Be aware of potential issues such as seasickness, heatstroke, or exposure to unfamiliar parasites. Consult your vet for preventative measures, including medication for motion sickness or parasite prevention.

Packing Essentials for Your Dog

Just like you, your dog needs a well-packed suitcase for the cruise. Here are some essentials to consider:

• Sturdy Leash and Collar: A sturdy leash and collar with an ID tag are crucial for keeping your dog safe and secure onboard and during shore excursions. Here’s a Good Leash and Collar you can buy.
• Collapsible Water and Food Bowls: Space-saving collapsible bowls are ideal for feeding your pup during the cruise. Here’s a good set of Collapsible Bowls you can buy.
• Familiar Bed or Blanket: Bringing a familiar bed or blanket can make your dog feel more at home in the new environment.
• Favorite Toys: A few favorite toys will keep your dog entertained and provide a sense of home.
• Regular Food and Medications: Ensure you have enough of your dog’s regular food and any necessary medications for the entire cruise.
• Waste Disposal Bags: Be prepared to clean up after your dog by bringing waste disposal bags. Here’s a Good Pack of Waste Disposal Bags you can buy.
• Litter Box or Pads: For small dogs, a litter box or absorbent pads can be a lifesaver for potty breaks in the cabin. Here’s a Good Litter Box or set of Absorbent Pads you can buy.

Making Your Cruise Enjoyable for Your Furry Friend

Embarking on a cruise doesn’t mean leaving your furry friend behind. Discover tips for making your voyage pet-friendly, so both you and your four-legged companion can sail in comfort and joy.

Designated Areas for Dogs

Cruise ships often provide specific areas for dogs. Designated relief areas, equipped with waste disposal bags and bins, are a must for bathroom breaks. On certain ships, like the Queen Mary 2, kennel facilities offer a secure place for dogs. Some cruise lines may also have pet-friendly cabins . It’s important to respect guidelines for keeping these spaces clean and free of pet hair.

When walking your dog onboard, always use a leash and avoid crowded areas. Some ships have designated times and locations for dog walks, ensuring a pleasant experience for all passengers.

Spending Time with Your Dog

During a cruise, your dog may miss their regular routine of play and socializing. Providing companionship and mental stimulation is crucial for their happiness.

In designated dog areas, you can engage in activities like fetch, obedience training, or even agility exercises. Bring your dog’s favorite toys to make playtime more fun. Spend quality time with your dog, sitting, petting, and talking to them. This bonding helps alleviate stress or anxiety in an unfamiliar environment.

Monitor your dog’s behavior and health throughout the cruise. Signs of stress, such as excessive panting or pacing, require attention. Seek advice from the ship’s medical staff or the Kennel Maste r if needed. By understanding your dog’s needs, providing stimulation, and adhering to ship rules, you and your furry friend can have an enjoyable cruise experience.

Alternatives to Cruising with Your Dog

Here’s to a journey of pawsibilities beyond conventional dog cruises. These alternative adventures prioritize your furry friend’s comfort while offering a medley of unforgettable experiences both you and your pooch will relish.

Planning Pet-Friendly Vacations on Land

While cruising with your dog may be a unique experience, there are many alternative vacation options on land where your furry friend can easily join you. Road trips, for example, offer a great way to explore new places together without the restrictions of cruise service.

Road trips to pet-friendly destinations are an excellent option for dog lovers. You have the flexibility to plan your route, stop whenever you like, and visit places that both you and your dog can enjoy. From dog-friendly beaches and parks to hiking trails and outdoor cafes, there are plenty of activities to choose from.

Finding pet-friendly accommodations is key to a successful vacation with your dog. Many hotels, motels, and vacation rentals now welcome pets, but it’s crucial to check their pet policies before booking. Some accommodations may have weight or breed restrictions, pet fees, or specific rules for pets .

Online resources like BringFido, Pet-Friendly Hotels, and Airbnb’s pet-friendly filter can help you find suitable places to stay. These platforms offer detailed information on pet policies, amenities, and guest reviews, making it easy to choose the perfect accommodation for you and your dog.

When it comes to activities, dog-friendly travel websites and local tourism boards can provide a wealth of information. They often list dog-friendly attractions, restaurants, parks, and events in the area, helping you plan a memorable and enjoyable vacation for both you and your four-legged companion.

By planning ahead and utilizing available resources, you can create an unforgettable pet-friendly vacation experience on land, full of fun and adventure for you and your furry friend.

For dog lovers, leaving your furry friend behind while you embark on a cruise can be tough. Thankfully, there are options available for those who wish to set sail with their canine companions. Whether it’s taking advantage of the pet-friendly facilities on the Queen Mary 2 or considering alternative vacation options on land, there’s something for every pet owner.

But remember, research and preparation are key. By understanding the pet policies, ensuring your dog meets health and vaccination requirements, and planning activities and accommodations that suit your dog’s needs, you’ll set the stage for a memorable and joyful vacation experience.

Can you bring your dog on a cruise?

Yes, you can bring your dog on certain cruises, like Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2, which offers a kennel program. However, most cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, don’t allow regular pets but do make exceptions for service dogs. The cost to take a dog on a cruise varies; on the Queen Mary 2, it starts at $800. Carnival Cruise Line only permits one service animal per guest.

Does Royal Caribbean allow dogs?

Royal Caribbean does not allow regular pets on board their ships. However, they do make exceptions for service animals, including guide dogs and other assistance animals that are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. Emotional support animals and therapy dogs are not considered service animals and are not allowed on Royal Caribbean ships.

How much does it cost to take a dog on a cruise?

The cost of taking a dog on a cruise varies depending on the cruise line and the services offered. For instance, on Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2, which offers a pet-friendly kennel program, prices start at $800 for a transatlantic voyage. This fee includes a kennel, pet food, and access to a designated play area. Other cruise lines may have different fees or policies.

Can I bring my dog on the Carnival cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line does not allow regular pets onboard their ships. However, they do permit service animals that are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities. This includes guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf, and other assistance animals. Emotional support animals and therapy dogs are not considered service animals and are not allowed on a Carnival Cruise ship.

Digital Marketer

I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

About FunkyCruise

• Cruise Tips

Pet Friendly Cruises. 6 Ways You Can Cruise With Your Pet!

by Gary Bembridge · May 10, 2022

Pet friendly cruises. Six ways you can cruise with your pets!

I’m asked a surprisingly large amount of times how – or if – you can cruise with your pet. If it’s something you want to do, you have six options. I’m going to talk you through six pet friendly cruises and which may be best for you and your fluffy friend.

Queen Mary 2

The easiest way to go cruising with your pet is on a Cunard Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossing. It’s the only ship in the world today that has kennels onboard. The ship has 22 kennels, and can take dogs and cats. But no birds or any other type of animals.

However, there is quite a cost associated with it. If you want to hire a lower kennel, it costs $1,000 for a seven-day crossing, and an upper kennel costs $800. Dogs aren’t allowed to share the kennels, so you’d have to buy one for each dog. Cats can share kennels, however, if you take a cat, you actually have to buy two kennels next to each other. Because one has to house the litter tray, the other the cat.

There is a kennel master who makes sure that the animals are walked and cared for. At set times of the day, you can go up and interact with your dog or your cats. There are a few restrictions on the areas where you can take them for fresh air.

It’s extremely popular, and you have to book at least 12 to 18 months in advance. The kennels only operate on the transatlantic service between Hamburg, Southampton, and New York; New York, Southampton, and Hamburg. You can’t travel with pets any other time on Queen Mary 2.

River and Canal

Your second key option is in Europe, where there are a certain number of cruises on which you’re allowed to take pets. You can generally take pets on canal cruises, particularly in the UK and in France. For example, if you hire a canal longboat in the UK you can normally take dogs on those. The same is true in France. If you’re chartering or hiring your own canal boat. So, that’s a key option if you’re in Europe, or perhaps you brought your dog over on the Queen Mary 2?

There’s also a river cruise ship called the MS Normandie, and at certain times of the year, they do cruises where they allow pets. They do some Rhine cruises, and some on the Moselle, so you can cruise and see some of the beautiful sights on the Rhine: the castles, etc. And experience some parts of Amsterdam.

Service Animals

The third easiest way to take a dog with you is if it’s a service animal. There are some key restrictions, though: a service animal has to be one that has been specifically trained to perform a task.

So, for example, a guide dog for people who are visually impaired. It has to be a physical disability – emotional support animals are no longer allowed. Royal Caribbean was one of the very last, but last year they banned emotional support animals because it felt like people were using it as an excuse to bring pets on board.

There are slightly different rules and regulations for service animals by cruise line. So, once you’ve chosen your cruise, you will need to double check. They all have varying degrees of notice that you’ll have to give. Normally you’ll have to provide some sort of documentation to show that they’re a service animal. Plus, obviously, they’ll need all the correct inoculations, and all of the various port clearances to enable them to come on board. Also, very importantly, many of the cruise lines will only allow service animals that will embark and disembark at the same port.

In Europe, there is capacity to bring on service animals, but it’s slightly more complicated. However, you can get what’s known as a pet passport, which will enable you to move your pets around. The cruise lines vary in what they will provide. For example, on Holland America and Royal Caribbean, they create specific areas where you can go and walk your dog. Many of them have regulations: they have to stay on the lead and there are constraints on when they’re allowed out. And which parts of the ship they’re allowed to visit.

Ship’s Captain

Another way that you can cruise with pets is to be the captain of a cruise ship.

There are two well-known examples! One of the best documented is Captain Kate who works for Celebrity Cruises and has a very unusual-looking cat called Bug Naked. This cat has become famous in the cruise industry. In fact, she even has her own Instagram account. People get very excited if Captain Kate is on board with Bug Naked.

On Saga Cruises, Captain Kim Tanner has a parrot called Perla, who normally stays up in the bridge. Occasionally, she will enter public areas to meet and greet guests. It’s not very common. You need a very forgiving and open-minded head office. But it certainly proves that if you are the captain of a cruise ship, you can probably find a way to bring your pet on board.

Regional ferry

Another pet friendly cruise option is to look at regional ferry services. This applies more in Europe, but many of the big regional ferry lines are pet-friendly. Particularly for overnight services they offer pet-friendly cabins.

As an alternative to a day crossing, you could go on a mini-cruise. Spend the day somewhere and then re-board the ferry and head back. You could also do two or three adjoining nights. A couple of examples of those are in the Baltic. There’s the Tallink Silja Line, and they cruise from Stockholm to Helsinki, to Tallinn, and Riga. I’ve seen many examples online of people that have booked back-to-back ferry trips and created a little cruise. A cruise where they can take their pets onboard. They do have a certain number of pet-friendly cabins, and there are various restrictions. Booking these in advance is important.

A couple of other examples are the Viking Line – not to be confused with Viking Cruises – which is another regional ferry service that operates between Finland and Sweden, and Finland and Estonia. They also have a number of pet-friendly cabins, so again, you can create little cruises.

If you want to go between the UK and the Continent, there are many examples. With Brittany Ferries, you could go from Portsmouth in the UK to Bilbao in Spain. From Portsmouth to Le Havre, in France. Or Portsmouth to other parts of Spain, like Santander. It’s more of a ferry service, but many of these overnight ferries operate like a cruise. They have restaurants, shows, entertainment and lots going on. You could create a little cruise around your pet, if that’s what you wanted to do. Combine that with a land-based tour where you could take your pet with you and it’s perfect.

Celebrity pets

Another way that you could embark on a pet friendly cruise without breaking all those rules is to be a celebrity or to have a celebrity pet. One of the winners of “Britain’s Got Talent” was a dog called Pudsey. Pudsey was renowned for heading off on a tour of the United States on Cunard Queen Mary 2. The dog was seen all around the ship, and even performed shows on board. Clearly if you are a celebrity and you have a pet, you’re probably going to find a way of getting your pet onboard.

So, can you cruise with a pet? It’s very difficult. The only traditional way of doing it is on the Queen Mary 2 on a Transatlantic voyage, or if you have some kind of service dog.

If you found this helpful and interesting, why don’t you watch one of my many cruising videos full of tips and advice right now?

Subscribe to Tips For Travellers YouTube Channel (click image):

Follow Tips For Travellers:

• Follow Tips For Travellers on:  YouTube ,  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Pinterest .
• Sign up for the monthly newsletter . includes a free eBook to download every month.
• Never miss a post by signing up below and every new post will be sent direct to you.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Tags: animals cruise holiday cruise tips cruise vacation holiday pet friendly pet friendly cruises pets tips for travelers tips for travellers travel tips vacation

Gary Bembridge

I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. In 2005, I launched Tips for Travellers to make it easy and fun for people to discover, plan and enjoy incredible cruise vacations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I have the largest cruise vlogger channel currently on YouTube, with more than 3 million video views per month.

You may also like...

What Cruise Crew Want Cruise Passengers To Know – Their Top Tips

April 26, 2022

Cruise Fare Tracking Will Save You A Fortune. Here’s How

April 5, 2022

Greatest Cruises In The World

May 25, 2021

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

• Next story  9 Things That Drive Frequent Cruisers Crazy
• Previous story  10 Best Ports For Greek Islands And Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

Search Tips For Travellers

Most popular articles:.

Subscribe to my Tips For Travellers Newsletter

Most popular pages.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

The Dog Lover’s Complete Guide to Finding Pet-Friendly Cruises

PUBLISHED: October 31, 2019 | UPDATED: May 13, 2020

Your dog is your best friend and you love when they can travel with you. Learn how they can join your vacation with this guide to finding pet-friendly cruises.

Cruises are a great way to get away from all of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Think of it, you’re lounging on the deck with a cocktail in your hand in the sun on your face. But, what could make your cruise even better? How about having your best friend by your side the whole time.

It sounds like a dream to have your puppy nestled in your lap while you’re sailing the seven seas.

But, are pet-friendly cruises actually a thing?

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about bringing your doggo on the cruise. 

Are Pet-Friendly Cruises a Thing?

First off, is it even possible to bring your doggo on the ship? And the answer is yes, absolutely.

Pet-friendly cruises are few and far between, but they definitely do exist.

Service Animal vs ESA

Let’s take a minute to talk about service animals versus emotional support animals. It is a federal law that cruise lines are required to allow you to bring your service animal onboard, regardless of their pet policies. However, while there is some gray area regarding emotional support animals , cruises are not required to allow them on board.

A service animal is a dog or miniature horse that is trained to perform a specific task for the owner. Service animals can be trained to do many different tasks, including assisting blind people, comfort those with severe mental disorders, such as autism, and even detect seizures before they happen.

While there are many more services that these animals can provide, they are in a different class than emotional support animals.

Emotional support animals are animals – dogs, cats, birds, or others – that a doctor has deemed necessary for your emotional well-being. While some cruises may still allow them onboard, you may have to pay a pet fee, whereas pet fees cannot be charged for service animals .

Common Rules 

For cruises that do allow pets, they tend to have some rules in common. First off, you will be responsible to clean up after your own dog. Most of us do that anyway, but you’ll need to be especially vigilant on the cruise. 

Second, most cruises require your dog to be on a leash whenever they are not in your cabin. Others may require your pet to stay in a dog boarding area throughout the cruise. Lastly, cruises usually only allow a certain amount of pets at any given time, so it’s usually first come first serve.

Suggested Cruiselines

Some of the biggest cruise lines are the most fun, but they usually aren’t pet-friendly. You’ll want to look into smaller cruise lines. Here are a few options:

• Cunard Cruise Lines
• Dolly Steamboat
• Potomac Riverboat
• Acadian Nature Cruises

While it’s true, everyone loves Caribbean cruises , they just aren’t very pet-friendly.

Now that you know more about pet-friendly cruises, do you think it’s worth it to take your puppy onboard?

It might come down to weighing the pros and cons, but, whether it’s worth it or not it’s really up to you and your doggo. If your pet has anxiety or medical problems, it might be best to leave them with a close friend or relative while you’re gone. Browse through the rest of our top stories so you can make sure your doggo is living its best life.

Related Posts

When ingested, toxic algae can cause vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory distress,…

Practice dog water safety. Teach dogs to swim, use life…

Common dog travel mistakes include picking the wrong time to…

Travel companies, airlines, and accommodation options are becoming increasingly pet-friendly…

Dog plane safety tips include taking a direct flight, making…

Flying with your dog creates many of the same complications…

Quick Links

• Top Stories

Recent Posts

• 10 low-maintenance dogs that are easy to groom Although grooming requirements may not top the list when you're considering what kind of dog to adopt, low maintenance dogs will make your life easier. […]
• Top tips to easily potty train your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Potty training your Cavalier can be challenging due to gastrointestinal issues, so start early, be consistent, and reward success. […]
• Try 7 practical tips to safely train your temperamental dog Stay calm and patient when training a temperamental dog. If you get frustrated, take your dog to a safe space, breathe and reset. […]
• The pet dilemma: Why workers choose furry friends over financial gain A survey from Vetster shows that many workers prioritize their pets over financial gain and want pet-friendly workplaces. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

Email address:

By entering your information, you agree to allow us to contact you in accordance with our privacy policy.

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

Which Cruise Lines Allow Pets

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Margalo Corbett

• Travel Guide

Introduction

Cruises are a popular vacation option for many people, offering the opportunity to relax and explore various destinations while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a floating hotel. For pet owners, however, the thought of leaving their beloved furry companions behind can be a real downer. Fortunately, there are cruise lines that understand the importance of keeping the family together, including the four-legged members.

In recent years, the demand for pet-friendly cruises has been on the rise, leading several cruise lines to modify their policies and accommodate pets onboard. This means that you no longer have to worry about leaving your pets behind while you embark on your dream cruise vacation. In this article, we will explore the cruise lines that allow pets, their policies and restrictions, the amenities and services they provide for pets, popular destinations for pet-friendly cruises, and some useful tips for traveling with pets on a cruise.

Whether you have a small dog, a cat, or any other furry friend, you can now consider taking them along on your voyage. However, it is important to note that not all cruise lines allow pets, and those that do often have specific requirements and restrictions. So before you start packing your pet’s bags, let’s take a closer look at the cruise lines that welcome pets with open arms.

Cruise Lines That Allow Pets

While many cruise lines have traditionally enforced a strict no-pet policy, there are a few that recognize the importance of including pets in travel plans. Here are some of the top cruise lines that allow pets:

• Cunard Line: Cunard Line is known for its extravagant cruise experiences, and they also welcome your four-legged companions. They offer a “Pets on Deck” program, allowing small dogs and cats to sail with their owners on transatlantic crossings and select itineraries.
• Disney Cruise Line: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Disney Cruise Line has made arrangements to accommodate pets in designated staterooms. However, it’s important to note that pets are only allowed on specific cruises and availability is limited.
• Holland America Line: Holland America Line offers pet-friendly cruises on select ships and itineraries. They provide a variety of amenities and services to ensure the comfort and well-being of your furry friend.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line allows pets on certain sailings, with specific areas designated for them. However, it’s important to check their policy in advance, as different ships may have different rules regarding pet accommodations.
• Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean International has a “Pets at Sea” program that allows guests to bring their dogs and cats onboard certain ships. They provide pet-friendly staterooms and amenities to ensure a pleasant experience for both pets and their owners.

These are just a few examples of cruise lines that are pet-friendly, but it’s important to research and check with individual cruise lines for their specific policies and availability. Keep in mind that each cruise line may have different rules and restrictions when it comes to bringing pets aboard.

Policies and Restrictions for Traveling with Pets

While some cruise lines welcome pets onboard, there are specific policies and restrictions that pet owners need to be aware of. Here are some common guidelines that you may encounter when traveling with pets on a cruise:

• Size and weight restrictions: Most cruise lines impose size and weight restrictions for pets. Typically, they allow small dogs and cats weighing up to a certain limit. It’s important to check with the cruise line in advance to ensure your pet meets the requirements.
• Type of pets allowed: While most cruise lines allow dogs and cats, there may be restrictions on other types of animals. Exotic pets or those with specific care requirements may not be permitted onboard. It’s important to clarify this with the cruise line to avoid any surprises.
• Cage or carrier requirements: In order to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet, cruise lines may require that pets be kept in a carrier or cage when not in the designated pet-friendly areas. It’s important to bring a suitable carrier that meets the cruise line’s guidelines.
• Vaccination and health requirements: Cruise lines often require proof of up-to-date vaccinations for pets. Some may also require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within a certain timeframe prior to embarkation. It’s crucial to ensure that your pet’s vaccinations and health records are in order to comply with the cruise line’s regulations.
• Pet-friendly areas: Most cruise lines designate specific areas where pets are allowed. These areas may include designated staterooms, outdoor decks, and designated pet relief areas. It’s important to follow the cruise line’s guidelines and only bring your pet to the approved areas.

It’s crucial to review and understand the policies and restrictions of the specific cruise line you plan to sail with. Each cruise line may have variations in their requirements, and it’s important to comply with their regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

Pet Amenities and Services on Pet-Friendly Cruise Lines

When traveling with your pet on a pet-friendly cruise line, you can expect a range of amenities and services to ensure their comfort and well-being. Here are some of the common pet amenities and services you may come across:

• Pet-friendly staterooms: Many cruise lines that allow pets offer specially designated pet-friendly staterooms. These rooms are designed to accommodate pets and may include features such as pet beds, food and water dishes, and even toys to keep your furry friend entertained.
• Designated pet relief areas: To ensure that your pet has a place to do their business, pet-friendly cruise lines often have designated pet relief areas. These areas are equipped with waste bags and disposal bins for easy clean-up.
• Pet exercise areas: Some pet-friendly cruise lines provide designated outdoor areas where pets can stretch their legs and get some exercise. These areas may include obstacle courses or play equipment for your pet’s enjoyment.
• Pet-sitting services: If you have activities or excursions planned that do not allow pets, some cruise lines offer pet-sitting services. This allows you to leave your pet in the care of trained professionals who will ensure their comfort and safety while you’re away.
• Pet-friendly menus and treats: Some cruise lines go the extra mile by offering pet-friendly menus and treats. You can find meals and treats specifically tailored to suit your pet’s dietary needs and preferences.
• Veterinary services: In case of any health concerns during the cruise, pet-friendly cruise lines often have veterinary services available onboard or can provide information on local veterinary clinics at the ports of call.

It’s important to check with the specific cruise line for the complete list of pet amenities and services they offer. These amenities and services are designed to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend.

Popular Destinations for Pet-Friendly Cruises

When planning a pet-friendly cruise, it’s essential to consider the destinations that are suitable for both you and your furry friend. Here are some popular destinations that offer pet-friendly cruises:

• The Caribbean: The Caribbean is a top destination for pet-friendly cruises, with its picturesque beaches and warm weather. Many cruise lines offer itineraries that include stops at pet-friendly ports, allowing you and your pet to explore beautiful islands together.
• Alaska: Alaska, with its stunning landscapes and wildlife, is another popular destination for pet-friendly cruises. Cruise lines offer itineraries that allow you to witness the beauty of glaciers and wildlife while keeping your pet by your side.
• Europe: Europe offers a variety of pet-friendly cruise options, allowing you to explore historic cities, charming coastal towns, and scenic landscapes. From the Mediterranean to the Baltic Sea, there are numerous itineraries that cater to pet owners.
• New England and Canada: The New England and Canada region is known for its vibrant fall foliage and charming coastal towns. Many cruise lines offer pet-friendly cruises that allow you to explore this picturesque region with your furry friend.
• Mexican Riviera: The Mexican Riviera offers beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Several cruise lines offer pet-friendly cruises to the Mexican Riviera, allowing you to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf with your pet by your side.

These are just a few examples of popular destinations for pet-friendly cruises, but there are many more options available. It’s important to research the specific itineraries and ports of call offered by cruise lines to find the destination that best suits your preferences and accommodates your furry companion.

Tips for Traveling with Pets on a Cruise

Traveling with pets on a cruise can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it does require some careful planning and preparation. Here are some helpful tips for a smooth and enjoyable pet-friendly cruise:

• Check the policies: Before booking your cruise, thoroughly review the pet policies and restrictions of the specific cruise line you plan to sail with. This will ensure that you meet all the requirements and avoid any surprises.
• Plan in advance: Book your pet-friendly stateroom well in advance, as these rooms tend to get booked quickly. Also, make arrangements for any necessary pet amenities or services, such as pet-sitting or special meals.
• Get familiar with the ship layout: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the ship, especially the areas designated for pets. This will help you navigate the ship easily and ensure that you and your pet can make the most of the facilities available.
• Pack essentials for your pet: Remember to bring all the essentials for your pet, such as food, water, medications, toys, and bedding. It’s also a good idea to pack some familiar items that will help your pet feel more comfortable in the new environment.
• Stick to the routine: Try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding and exercise routine as much as possible during the cruise. This will help them feel more at ease and minimize any potential stress or anxiety.
• Keep your pet secure: Ensure that your pet is properly secured in a carrier or leash when in public areas. This is not only for their safety but also to ensure the comfort of other passengers who may have allergies or fear of animals.
• Be mindful of your pet’s behavior: Be respectful of other guests and crew members by ensuring that your pet is well-behaved and does not disturb others. If your pet becomes anxious or stressed, try to address their needs and provide reassurance.
• Follow hygiene practices: Always clean up after your pet and dispose of waste properly in designated bins. This will help maintain a clean and pleasant environment for everyone onboard.
• Consider local regulations at ports of call: When exploring ports of call, be aware of any local regulations regarding pets. Some destinations may have restrictions on bringing pets ashore or require certain documentation, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
• Enjoy the experience: Above all, remember to enjoy the experience of traveling with your pet on a cruise. Cherish the memories you create together and make the most of the pet-friendly amenities and services provided by the cruise line.

By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable pet-friendly cruise experience for both you and your furry companion.

Traveling with pets on a cruise is no longer a distant dream. With several cruise lines now offering pet-friendly sailing options, you can embark on an unforgettable vacation with your furry friend by your side. Whether it’s exploring the Caribbean beaches, enjoying the scenic beauty of Alaska, or immersing yourself in the rich history of Europe, there are numerous destinations to choose from.

Before setting sail, it’s important to carefully review the policies and restrictions of the cruise line you plan to travel with. Familiarize yourself with their pet amenities and services, and ensure that your pet meets the size and weight requirements. Additionally, it’s crucial to prepare and pack all the essentials for your pet’s comfort and well-being.

During your cruise, follow the guidelines provided by the cruise line and be mindful of your pet’s behavior. Keep them secure in a carrier or on a leash when in public areas, and clean up after them to maintain a clean and pleasant environment for everyone. It’s also important to adhere to any local regulations at the ports of call.

Traveling with your pet on a cruise can be a truly rewarding experience, allowing you to create lasting memories together. From pet-friendly staterooms and exercise areas to specialized menus and pet-sitting services, the cruise lines that allow pets strive to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend.

So, if you’ve been longing to take your pet on a vacation, consider a pet-friendly cruise. It’s an opportunity to bond, explore new destinations, and enjoy all the luxuries and experiences that cruises have to offer. With proper planning and preparation, you and your pet can embark on an unforgettable adventure at sea.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Are There Any Dog-Friendly Cruises in 2024?

It’s becoming increasingly popular for people to travel with their dogs, so what about cruises? Are there any pet-friendly cruises now? And I’m not talking mere day cruises here, but multi-night cruises, ideally with the option for some sightseeing.

Find out more about whether dogs are allowed on cruises, plus a few pet-friendly cruise options to consider.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links. See my full disclaimer .

Can Pet Dogs Go on Cruises?

Unfortunately, if you’re picturing taking a typical Mediterranean or Caribbean multi-night cruise operated by major cruise lines, or cruises to Indonesia , along with your dog anytime soon, you’re out of luck. I’ve checked the rules for countless cruises, and unless you have an assistance dog, animals are strictly forbidden on nearly all cruises.

There are probably two main reasons for this. Firstly, there are the additional pet amenities required by dogs, plus the likelihood of mishaps in a ship environment. If your dog insists on doing their business on grass, you’re out of luck on a cruise ship. Additionally, there probably hasn’t yet been enough demand, with cruises being very popular without being pet-friendly.

However, there are a few options available if you’d like to cruise with your dog. There are a small number of overnight cruises (or at least multi-night ferries) that allow dogs on board, whether in pet-friendly cabins or in an onboard kennel. Check out these pet-friendly cruise options…

Cross the Atlantic with Your Dog on the Queen Mary 2

One of the most well-known cruises that welcomes pet dogs on board is the Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 on its Transatlantic crossings between New York City in the United States and Southhampton in England .

This crossing is also useful for pet owners heading to Europe or the USA with their pup, but who don’t want to fly them in the hold (if they are too large to fit in the cabin).

Onboard the Queen Mary 2

While pets are not allowed in your cabin onboard the Queen Mary II, there are 24 kennels on the ship, accommodating both dogs and cats. Cats need to reserve two kennels, one for general use and one for their litter box.

Pets need to remain in the kennel area; they are not permitted into the other public areas of the ship. The kennel area on Deck 12 (spot it on the deck plans ) includes an outdoor area, a small enclosed playroom for stormy Atlantic crosses and an owner’s lounge.

Access is provided to the kennels multiple times per day. Looking at reports from people who have travelled with dogs on the ship, they tend to spend a large part of each day sitting on the chairs on this deck. There is also a full-time kennel master, who will walk your dog when you can’t, naturally!

Booking a Kennel

The kennels on the Queen Mary 2 are amongst the fastest option to sell out on the Transatlantic voyages, generally at least a year in advance, thanks to their popularity as a way to cross the Atlantic for those with larger dogs that can’t fit in the cabin.

However, a wait list does operate and sometimes last minute spaces become available. It’s worthwhile putting your name down and seeing if a spot comes up.

As of 2021, small kennels were $800 USD for the seven-night crossing, while large kennels were $1000 USD. Contact Cunard directly to find out the latest prices.

For more information on the Queen Mary 2, check out Man in Seat 61 . Alternatively, read the review on  The Road Unleashed .

Take a European River Cruise with Your Dog

In Europe itself, one of the most popular cruising options is to take a river cruise. These cruises are available on many rivers, including the Rhine, Danube and Moselle Rivers.

Given how dog-friendly most of the countries are that these river cruises pass through, and that a river cruise doesn’t have the same logistical issues when it comes to “doggie business” as a cruise on the open ocean, it’s a surprise that dogs aren’t welcome on more of these cruises. I have only come across one dog-friendly river cruise in Europe so far.

Dog-Friendly River Cruises with 1AVista Reisen

The only dog-friendly European river cruises I have come across are run by 1AVista Reisen, a German company based in Cologne.

They operate multiple cruises per year for dogs and their owners aboard the MS Normandie and MS Junker Jörg. There are multiple itineraries in Germany and the Netherlands, with each cruise generally lasting seven or eight days. The cruises are majority German-language, but the crew can provide assistance in English.

Onboard the River Cruises

Dogs on these cruises aren’t relegated to kennels, but are permitted to stay with you in your cabin. Generally only one dog with a maximum shoulder height of 50cm is permitted per booked cabin, but you can also request permission to bring along two smaller dogs, with a maximum shoulder height of 30cm each.

On the dog-friendly cruises, a section of the sun deck is converted to a “dog meadow”, covered in grass and plants so that dogs can relieve themselves any time of day. There’s plenty of walks each day, plus a dog trainer on board.

For more information, check out the 1AVista Reisen website (Germany only). Or read this review from Louie Vuitton the Frenchie (complete with photos).

Enjoy a Baltic Mini-Cruise with Your Dog

Another pet-friendly cruise option in Europe is to take advantage of some of the pet-friendly ferry crossings, particularly ones that allow foot passengers also to take pets. Then turn the ferry trip into a mini-cruise by taking two crossings back-to-back! Many ferry companies specifically sell this as an option.

This is what I discovered when I was taking a ferry crossing on the Baltic from Stockholm to Helsinki , with Tallink Silja Line. We were just taking the ship one-way, but on board we discovered that many of the passengers were doing a two-night cruise, with a full day to explore Helsinki and two fun-filled nights on board the ship.

Baltic Mini-Cruises with Tallink Silja Line

Tallink Silja Line offers multiple Baltic mini-cruise options. Ships sail regularly from Stockholm to Helsinki and Tallinn , with the option to do a mini-cruise in either direction. To book, head to their website and search for cruises on your preferred departure date and route, then on the next page selected the “Day In Cruise” option.

Onboard the Tallink Silja Ships

Tallink Silja Line operates multiple cruise ships on these routes, each with multiple dog-friendly cabins, in addition to kennels on some routes. I recommend booking early to make sure you can book a dog-friendly cabin. (Scroll to the bottom and expand “Traveling with Pets” to view these cabins.)

We travelled in a B-class cabin but I recommend splurging for an A-class cabin with windows if available, as you’ll probably spend longer than usual in your cabin while travelling with a dog. (Cheaper C-class cabins are also available.) The pet-friendly cabins are slightly more expensive than regular cabins, plus there is a fee of €32 per dog for the round-trip.

Onboard, on our ship there was a designated dog exercise area on the upper deck, with a gravel filled sandpit for dogs to do their business. If the weather is fine, it’s great to chill out on the upper deck and enjoy a drink from the open-air Promenade bar with your pup by your side.

Pet dogs aren’t allowed inside the other bars and restaurants, located indoors on the ship. However, we entered through the main promenade area with our dog, and had no issues walking him back through the area while we explored.

Find out more about this pet-friendly cruise, including the facilities for humans on board the ships and sightseeing recommendations, in my review .

Take a Short Cruise to the Netherlands with Your Dog

If you’re located in the UK , there are also dog-friendly mini-cruise options closer to home. Fancy a day or two in the Netherlands ? There’s two ferry options available that can offer you a Dutch mini-cruise, both with dog-friendly cabins available.

DFDS Mini-Cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam

Onboard they have multiple pet-friendly cabins . Up to two medium-sized dogs are allowed in each cabin, which accommodates four humans in bunk beds. There are also kennels available on board – these were previously only available to those bringing a vehicle onboard, but DFDS now states they can be used by foot passengers.

To book a pet-friendly cabin or kennel as a foot passenger (without a vehicle), you’ll need to call the call centre. Be sure to book well in advance, as there are limited numbers available. There is a charge of £30 per pet each way (likely charged twice for the mini-cruise).

Your dog will be restricted to your cabin (or kennel), as well as the nearby dog toilet area (featuring fake grass, gravel beds and a post). Unfortunately, pet dogs are not allowed on the other outdoor decks or inside the public spaces, but it is fine to leave them unattended in your cabin, as long as you trust them.

Dogs are permitted on the coach into Amsterdam, as long as they don’t sit on a seat. 

DIY Stena Line Cruise from Harwich to Hook of Holland

The other possible cruise option from England to the Netherlands is the Stena Line ferry from Harwich to Hook of Holland . While they don’t advertise a mini-cruise option on their website, it’s still easy to book, including the addition of a hotel for a one or two-night stay in the Netherlands.

There are both overnight and day crossings available. Overnight cruises are either 8hr or 9 1/2 hr in duration, with the day cruises starting from 6 1/2 hours.

Hook of Holland is located not far away from Rotterdam, plus the beaches near The Hague. It’s also not far from Amsterdam on the quick and dog-friendly trains in the Netherlands .

Recently Stena Lina has added a variety of pet-friendly cabins to this route. Choose between two-berth inside and outside cabins, both with bunk beds. There are also five-berth cabins that can accommodate up to four adults and one child, with a window.

These cabins can accommodate up to three small pets, up to 15kg each, two medium-size dogs up to 30kg, or one larger dog over 30kg. There are no additional fees for pets, but the cabins are marginally more expensive. Pets are only permitted inside the cabin, plus the nearby designated pet area out on deck.

If the pet-friendly cabins are already booked out, there is also the option of booking a kennel for your pet. We used these kennels when previously on the ferry and found them more pet-friendly than most. It was possible to freely visit the kennels and there was a CCTV display of the kennel area among the TV channels. The set charge for dogs using the kennels is £21 per trip.

You May Also Like

• Dog-Friendly Baltic Cruise
• Stena Line Ferry with a Dog: Harwich to Hook of Holland
• Dog-Friendly Boat Cruises in Australia

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

Inspired? Pin this to your Pinterest board!

14 thoughts on “Are There Any Dog-Friendly Cruises in 2024?”

What about US cruises?

Sorry Barbara, but I haven’t come across any multi-day US cruises that allow dogs. If anyone knows of any, let me know!

Need a pet friendly cruise from UK to Turkey, any suggestions please?

Sorry, but I don’t believe any exist. There are pet friendly ferries across to the continent, and then you could either take trains (probably, the services aren’t as good the further east you go) or fly to Istanbul.

Greg.. pls let me know what you find. I’m still in process of finding a transatlantic to UK or Hamburg to then go to Turkey (no spaces on transatlantic ships at this time but I’m crossing fingers), but then i will be in your same situation. I’d appreciate if you could let me know your findings. Thanks. sammyjones777 @ yahoo . ca

What you find with the QM2 is that the kennel places go very early (12-18 months in advance), but then at the three month (90-day) point when the deposit becomes forfeit, they get a fair few cancellations. I did the TA both ways this year with my dog, and we booked 18 months ahead, but both times we met people who had got on at short notice.

Ian – Thanks so much for sharing your experience!

How about the bullet trains UK to continent, and within continental EU? Are dogs allowed on the bullet trains? I know that they’re not really tours because you can reach your destination in less than 24 hours, but I was just wondering. How about a tour train like the Orient express? Do they allow dogs? I am moving to Portugal so it’s a one-way trip but I won’t put my dog in the stowaway cabin only in the passenger cabin and it’s getting more and more difficult to do that. Even the ones that do only guarantee it until you land in Europe and then from there if you want to continue on air travel you have to put the dog in steerage. So I thought I would just get off at wherever the plane lands, and from there take trains or Rent-A-Car . I am moving there for at least a year so I’m also interested in these pet friendly European cruises and luxury train tours because I’ll be spending much of the time traveling all over Europe. Lastly, is anyone aware if the European countries have different entrance policies for dogs? I believe they do and that the UK is quite restrictive and Iceland as well (they’re both islands), but I wasn’t sure about other countries

Hi Patrick – You’ll find answers to a lot of your questions in different articles. Firstly, the Eurostar train doesn’t allow pet dogs onboard. The best option is to take one of the few ferries that allow foot passengers to bring pets, or use a pet taxi. Some of the overnight trains allow pets, as long as you reserve an entire berth. Check with individual companies, but Austria’s ÖBB is one that allows pets. Some European countries do have different policies. I suggest you check my article on travelling between European countries. As well as the UK, Finland, Ireland, Malta and Norway all require a worming treatment. You need to book in advance an inspection appointment on arrival in Malta. Plus, some non-EU countries may have different requirements, plus you might need a rabies titre test result to return to the EU.

I am retired and am ready to move back to the UK. I would be taking 7 Standard Poodles. 6 are pets the other is my service dog. There’s absolutely no question of leaving any of them and 2 are under 6 months. What is my best strategy?

Elizabeth – There’s restrictions on taking more than 5 dogs. If you have more than 5 dogs, you’ll need to follow the commercial rules, that I’m not familiar with. See this UK website: https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain/5-pets-other-animals

Thanks everyone for sharing your helpful travel experiencs and tips. My husband and me live in the Netherlands and interested to know what travel or tour or river or sea cruise options for a week or twos vacation including other European countries? (We want our 2 small/medium dogs with us in my berth or cabin). Any ideas please? Many thanks Mirium

Mirium – Your best bet is to check out 1AVista Reisen, who offer some river cruises for dogs and their owners.

This article was very informative. It’s so nice to read that things are getting more pet friendly all the time.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

THE 10 BEST Resorts near Electrostal History and Art Museum, Elektrostal

Resorts near electrostal history and art museum, property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance from Electrostal History and Art Museum See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.

• About Amazon (English)
• About Amazon (日本語)
• About Amazon (Français)
• About Amazon (Deutsch)
• Newsroom (Deutsch)
• About Amazon (Italiano)
• About Amazon (Polski)
• About Amazon (Español)
• Press Center (English)
• About Amazon (Português)

Amazon’s Prime Day event is back this July

• Facebook Share
• Twitter Share
• LinkedIn Share
• Email Share
• Copy Link copied

Lee este artículo en español .

We are excited for Prime members to discover some of Amazon’s best deals of the summer during Amazon’s 10th Prime Day event.

During last year’s event, Prime members purchased more than 375 million items worldwide and saved more than $2.5 billion on millions of deals across Amazon stores, making it the biggest Prime Day event in Amazon’s history. Amazon also hit another milestone in 2023 by delivering to Prime members at the fastest speeds throughout the year !

We are working hard to pack even more great savings into the event this year. Members will also be able to take advantage of deep discounts and get their shopping done early for Back-to-School supplies, avoiding the lines and enjoying the convenience of fast, free shipping through Prime. We know our members love savings, and we work hard to bring deals on new and popular brands you can only shop on Amazon for this year’s event.

Prime Day will take place in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the U.S., and the UK.

See the announcement on LinkedIn or Instagram from Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores.

We’ll share more details soon as we get closer to the event!

Big deals coming your way! ➡ This July, we’re bringing back Prime Day! 🎉 Prime members, stay tuned for exclusive deals (they’re sure to give you all the feels! 😍). https://t.co/HPR5lv0iCC pic.twitter.com/se1ZFBadsl — Amazon (@amazon) April 26, 2024

Discover all the benefits available with your Prime membership:

• How to sign up for a Prime membership
• 5 awesome benefits that make your Prime membership worth it
• Here’s how much a Prime membership costs, and how to make the most of its benefits

Sign up for the weekly Amazon newsletter

15 of the best early deals to shop on pet products ahead of Amazon Pet Day

An update on Amazon's plans for Just Walk Out and checkout-free technology

What is Amazon Pet Day? 48 hours of dedicated pet deals May 7-8

Amazon Pet Day 2024 is coming May 7-8 with 48 hours of deals on pet products and supplies

How to reset your Prime login

15 Climate Pledge Friendly products to shop at Amazon during Earth Month

Amazon One launches an app to make sign-up for its palm-recognition service even easier

Amazon Pharmacy now offers Same-Day Delivery in New York City and the L.A. area. Here’s how AI is helping us deliver medication faster.

Everything you need to know about Amazon Business, one of Amazon’s fastest-growing ventures

• Russia Tourism
• Russia Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Russia
• Russia Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Russia
• Russia Restaurants
• Russia Attractions
• Russia Travel Forum
• Russia Photos
• All Russia Hotels
• Russia Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Advice needed: Boarding a train at 3 AM from Vladimir - Russia Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    

Advice needed: Boarding a train at 3 AM from Vladimir

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Europe forums
• Russia forum

How safe is it for solo female traveler to board the Vostok train to Irkutsk from Vladimir, at 3 AM? (In July)

Does the station have a waiting room?

Are 2 AM cab rides from the hotel to station advisable?

Any specific don'ts?

Thanks for your time!

Yes, this station has a waiting room and it's quite safe.

The internal unarmed guard of the Russian railways is constantly present on station.

There will be people around, station is large and safe, no real worries...

All large stations also have police precincts with regular patrols around premises.

Thank you for your replies and info. Much appreciated! :)

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Planning trip to Russia 09:26
• Flights to Russia 2024 05:26
• Looking for travel partner(s) to Yakutsk/Oymyakon in Feb'24 25 April 2024
• Men's barber cheap haircut under €5 25 April 2024
• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter 24 April 2024
• Are there direct flights from Moscow to central/southamerica 23 April 2024
• Sber bank and electrical scooter 23 April 2024
• Hop on hop off Trans Siberian train 22 April 2024
• Russia - Belarus - Russia 22 April 2024
• Sergiev Posad to Pereslavl Zalessky 20 April 2024
• Crossing the border from Narva to Ovanograd by bus 14 April 2024
• Current best way to send dollars to Russia? 14 April 2024
• Flights into Russia 12 April 2024
• Migration Registration 12 April 2024
• River cruise Moscow to St Petersburg 159 replies
• "Tourist Confirmation Letter and Travel Voucher" for a visa. 5 replies
• Moscow and St Petersburg - how long to stay? 5 replies
• Getting a Russian visa from the UK - queries 2 replies
• Bolshoi tickets 30 replies
• Visa and required travel insurance for Russia 11 replies
• Maslenitsa 2012 help 5 replies
• APRIL in Moscow & St.Pete's -- are we nuts? 2 replies
• Train Moscow - St. Petersburg 12 replies
• how expensive IS Russia? 11 replies
• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?