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Sailings That Visit Canada as of September 26, 2022

Travel requirements vary by homeport country. Be sure you’re aware of both homeport country and Celebrity Cruises vaccine and testing requirements as they may differ. We will continually evaluate and update these requirements and protocols as new information becomes available. Booked guests will be advised of the latest requirements leading up to departure.

Health Protocols and Requirements

Vaccination Policy to Sail

Effective October 1, 2022, all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, can now cruise as long as they meet testing requirements to board. While vaccinations are not required to sail on Celebrity Cruises, they are highly recommended.

COVID-19 booster vaccine shots are not currently required to sail on Celebrity Cruises but are highly recommended.

If you are vaccinated, please plan to carry your vaccination documentation with you at all times while in port should local authorities or businesses request it to help facilitate entry and/or experiences.

Vaccines approved and accepted by the World Health Organization (WHO) OR by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will be considered valid with the current exception of the CanSino vaccine.

Guests with a mixed series of any two of the following vaccines taken within a minimum of 28 days between doses, will also be considered fully vaccinated:  

  • Pfizer / Cominarty
  • Moderna / Spikevax
  • Johnson & Johnson / Janssen
  • AstraZeneca / Covishield / Vaxzevria
  • Sinovac / Coronavac
  • Sinopharm / BBIBP-CorV

Any guest who has received one dose of a vaccine (other than Johnson & Johnson) will not be considered fully vaccinated.

Testing Requirements Vaccinated Guests* For all sailings 9 nights or shorter , no pre-boarding testing is required.

For all sailings 10 nights or longer , vaccinated guests ages 5 and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding. Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted. Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored. Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot or photo of the test result or the actual test. Antibody tests are not accepted.

Unvaccinated Guests For all sailings, unvaccinated guests ages 5 and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken within 3 days prior to boarding. Test results from any commercially available Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), including self-tests, will be accepted. Tests do not have to be supervised or proctored. Test results may be presented as a printout, screenshot or photo of the test result or the actual test. Antibody tests are not accepted.

Guests who have recently recovered from COVID-19 may present a Certificate of Recovery and proof of the positive PCR or Antigen test result taken between 11-90 days prior to the sail date in order to board and be exempt from testing. We will not accept a Certificate of Recovery in place of a vaccination record. Please be aware that some ports of call do not accept a Certificate of Recovery for the purposes of debarking and enjoying the destination. We will not accept a Certificate of Recovery in place of a vaccination record.

*Definition of Fully Vaccinated : vaccinated with a full dose of a primary series vaccine. The last primary dose must have been administered at least 14 days prior to embarkation.

Re-Entry (to home country)

Most countries no longer require a re-entry test. Should you need a test to re-enter your country of residence, please visit the Guest Relations desk onboard the ship.

PRE-CRUISE Test Kit Resources for U.S. Guests

Celebrity Cruises has also worked with its trusted vendors to make options for procuring monitored/proctored test kits available to you. We strongly recommend ordering test kits at least 7 days in advance of your sailing. These tests allow you to complete your pre-cruise test at home or any place of your choosing with the help of live video supervision by a Certified Guide.

U.S. RESIDENTS ORDER HERE – ABBOTT BINAXNOW™

While On Board

Currently, face masks are optional onboard Celebrity ships for all guests, regardless of vaccination status. Celebrity Cruises follows the requirements in all jurisdictions we sail, and please note that mask requirements may vary by the destinations visited on your sailing and/or disembarkation port. This policy is continually re-evaluated, and any updates will be shared with guests. 

Excursions & Going Ashore

All guests may go ashore on their own where it’s permitted.

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Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of Entry and Ferry Terminals

Updated Date: May 1, 2023

DHS Statement on the Lifting of Title 19 Requirements

Beginning May 12, 2023, DHS will no longer require non-U.S. travelers entering the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request. DHS intends to rescind these Title 19 travel restrictions in alignment with the end of the Public Health Emergency and the termination of the Presidential Proclamation on air travel .

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

As of Thursday, April 21, 2022, DHS will extend COVID-19-related land border entry requirements. Non-U.S. travelers seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  

These restrictions apply to non-U.S. travelers who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals. 

This announcement does not affect requirements for entry into the United States by air.

What To Expect

As travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, wait times are expected to increase. The resources below are intended to prepare travelers to improve the cross-border travel experience. Travelers should plan for longer than normal wait times and longer lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are reminded to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers arriving or departing from air, sea or land ports of entry are encouraged to opt in to using Simplified Arrival or Mobile Passport Control , which can make the inspection process touchless and more expedient with the use of facial comparison technology . Documented non-citizens may also apply for and manage their I-94s through the CBP One TM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Arrival at Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has allowed inbound non-U.S. travelers (non-U.S. citizens who are neither U.S. nationals nor lawful permanent residents) to seek to enter the United States via a land port of entry (POE) or ferry terminal if they are fully vaccinated and have appropriate documentation.

Non-U.S. individuals traveling to the United States via land ports of entry or ferry terminals, whether for essential or non-essential reasons, must: 

  • verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status;
  • provide, upon request, proof of a CDC-approved COVID-19 vaccination, as outlined on the CDC website ;  
  • present a valid  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI)-compliant document, such as a valid passport, Trusted Traveler Program Card, or Enhanced Tribal Card;   
  • be prepared to present any other relevant documents requested by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer during a border inspection; and   

COVID-19 testing is not required for entry via a land or ferry port of entry. 

Click here to see answers to frequently asked questions

In March 2020, to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, the U.S. government issued restrictions on travel into the United States. DHS implemented temporary restrictions, limiting entry at the U.S. northern and southern land borders to persons engaged in essential travel, including lawful trade, emergency response, and public health purposes. The White House also suspended entry to foreign nationals who had recently been in certain countries.

In October 2021, the White House  announced  that, starting November 8, 2021, the U.S. government would move away from the country-by-country restrictions previously applied during the COVID-19 pandemic and adopt travel policies that rely primarily on vaccination to advance the safe resumption of travel. Since January 22, 2022, DHS has imposed a vaccination requirement on non-U.S. individuals seeking to cross into the United States at land ports of entry or ferry terminals. 

CDC Resources

  • International Travel Landing Page
  • Travel Requirements: Quiz
  • International Travel : Information for U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, Lawful Permanent Residents, and People Traveling to the U.S. on Immigrant Visas
  • Non-U.S. Citizen Non-U.S. Immigrants: Air Travel to the United States

Additional Information

  • Vaccines.gov
  • DHS Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019
  • Coronavirus.gov
  • CDC.gov: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
  • USA.gov: What the U.S. Government is Doing (link is no longer valid)
  • Border Security
  • Transportation Security
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19)
  • Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

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An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

CBP Seal, U.S. Customs and Border Protection:  U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Links to CBP.gov homepage

This page was published more than five years ago. Information on the page may be out of date.

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What to Expect When You Return

Complete the cbp declaration form 6059b.

You have several entry options once you return from your trip. All travelers must complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B itemizing all purchased merchandise and agricultural products.

Here are your options:

  • Complete a paper form that may be obtained at the port of entry or on the flight or cruise.
  • Complete the online form at a Global Entry kiosk. (Only preapproved Global Entry members are allowed to use these kiosks.)
  • Complete the online form at an Automated Passport Control kiosk.

Keeping all your purchase receipts handy in an envelope in your carry-on bag will ease this process. If warranted, the CBP officer will calculate the duties to pay on your newly acquired goods.

Paying Duties

Personal exemptions that do not require the traveler to pay duty will be $200, $800 or $1600 depending on the countries you visited.

The duty-free exemptions ($200, $800, or $1600) apply if:

  • The items are for your personal or household use or intended to be given as gifts.
  • Merchandise is in your possession, that is, it accompanies you when you return to the United States. Items to be sent later may not be included in your duty-free exemption. (Exceptions apply for goods sent from Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands.)
  • Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item. If in doubt, declare it.
  • You are returning from an overseas stay of at least 48 hours. This time limit does not apply if you are returning from Mexico or from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • You have not used all of your exemption allowance, or used any part of it, in the past 30 days. For example, if you go to England and bring back $150 worth of items, you must wait another 30 days before you are allowed another exemption.
  • The items are not prohibited or restricted as discussed in the section on Prohibited and Restricted Items. Before departing on your trip, check the latest information for the full list of prohibited and restricted items on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Cuba Sanctions website, as well as other related government resources.

Duty free exemption limits depend on the country or countries you visit and the length of stay. Learn which rates apply to the goods your purchase on your trip - call the CBP attaché at the country's U.S. embassy.

Your CBP Interview

To keep our borders secure and our nation safe, CBP must inspect everyone who arrives at a U.S. port of entry. The CBP officers are authorized to ask you questions about your trip and your personal background, including:

  • Your citizenship
  • The nature of your trip
  • Anything you are bringing back to the United States that you did not have when you left.

Officers have legal authority to search you, your baggage or your vehicle. If asked to, place your opened baggage on the exam station. After the exam, you will be asked to repack and close your baggage.

CBP pledges to treat you courteously and professionally. If at any point you are unhappy with your treatment, ask to speak to a CBP supervisor. You may also call the CBP INFO Center at 877-227-5511. If calling within the United States, call 202-325-8000 or go to www.cbp.gov and click on Questions/Comments.

Protect Your Trip »

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

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

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Passports on a map showing cruise lanes.

Getty Images

A passport isn't always required for cruising.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to cruise without a passport

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

  • The Bahamas

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

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

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

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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

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

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

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

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

U.S. citizens 16 and older

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

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

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

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

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

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

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

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

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

Unacceptable forms of ID

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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You could breeze through US customs more quickly after your next cruise, thanks to facial recognition

Ashley Kosciolek

If you hate the cruise disembarkation process as much as I do, you'll want to hear this: Cruise lines have partnered with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to help you move through customs more quickly after you disembark, using biometric data and facial recognition.

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

How it works

The technology is currently in place in 11 major cruise ports , including Bayonne, Miami, New Orleans, Port Canaveral, San Juan, Tampa, Galveston, Mobile, Manhattan, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and Seattle, and there are plans for further expansion.

There are a few companies that provide it to ports on behalf of the cruise lines they serve. One example is IDEMIA, which has partnered with Royal Caribbean to bring its MFACE facial biometric capturing software to Bayonne, Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and Galveston.

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When you disembark, you'll proceed to a series of small pedestal-style kiosks, where you'll look at a screen that reads your face with a camera and compares it with the photo that's linked to your passport or visa.

The process takes almost no time at all and, according to a statement from CBP, it's 98% accurate. If, for some reason, your identity can't be verified, you'll proceed through a traditional, manual customs line, as will passengers on closed-loop sailings (a cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port) who are traveling with documents other than passports.

Additionally, travelers who don't want to have their photos taken can, instead, request that CBP verify their identities directly.

Why it was implemented

In addition to saving travelers and border officials time, biometric technology is also a safety measure. CBP reports that, since 2018, it has been used to prevent more than 850 imposters from entering the U.S. with travel documents that were genuine but didn't belong to them.

"Travel and security go hand in hand," Lisa Sullivan, IDEMIA's VP of Travel and Transport, told TPG in an email. "MFACE ... was created, and continues to be perfected, without making any compromise when it comes to the safety of those traveling."

These types of facial recognition screenings already take place at most major airports and land-based ports of entry into the U.S., with more than 88 million travelers having undergone this type of identity verification to date.

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What it's like to be screened

On my last two cruises -- one from Miami and the other from Port Canaveral -- I was screened this way during disembarkation. There was no line either time, and I was able to walk up to the camera, see my face on the screen and keep on walking within two seconds. (The part that took the longest was having to remove my mask and then put it back on afterward before moving along.)

Privacy implications

You might cringe at the thought of the government having access to your biometric data, but keep in mind that if you currently have a passport or Global Entry , that data is already on file. That's how they're able to verify your identity when you travel.

Since 2007, all passports issued by the U.S. are biometric (also known as e-passports ), and they contain a chip with all information (birth date, full name, etc.) shown on your passport, as well as your photo. Some e-passports from other countries contain further biometric data, such as fingerprints and even retinal information.

According to CBP's website , "Hosted within a secure cloud-based environment, facial comparison software does not store biographic data for any travelers. CBP retains U.S. citizen photos for no more than 12 hours after identity verification, and only for continuity of operations purposes."

So, basically, you don't have to worry about someone stealing your info from the cruise port because, after 12 hours, it won't be there anymore.

entering us by cruise ship

What officials are saying

"As part of the travel recovery efforts, travelers have the benefit of secure, touchless and streamlined entry procedures into the United States while CBP protects the privacy of all travelers," Diane J. Sabatino, CBP deputy executive assistant commissioner of field operations, said in a statement.

"The health, safety and security of passengers, crewmembers and the communities we visit is the cruise industry's top priority and, to that end, the use of biometric technology in cruise terminals is showing impressive results," said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association, a cruise industry organization that collectively represents 90% of the world's cruise lines.

"As we build back the travel industry, biometric technology will play an increasingly important role in ensuring a modern and more secure and efficient travel system for all," said Tori Emerson Barnes, U.S. Travel Association executive vice president of public affairs and policy.

Where else biometric data is used on your cruise

I recently wrote about how cruise lines are implementing contact tracing on their ships in the wake of COVID-19. One of the ways some vessels track where passengers have been onboard and who their close contacts were is through facial recognition software that taps into existing security camera footage.

For years, lines have used your photo and facial recognition for everything from identifying you at embarkation and disembarkation -- when you swipe on and off of the ship, your photo pops up so the crew can tell you're who you say you are -- to helping you to find pictures of yourself in the onboard photo gallery after you've posed for the photographer.

Bottom line

Like it or not, if you're a traveler, the government already has access to your personal data. Avoiding biometric screenings won't prevent that, and taking advantage of them simply means faster lines and shorter wait times for you. Don't be surprised if you see this at the terminal at the end of your next sailing that disembarks in the U.S.

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Crewmember (D) visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons working on board commercial sea vessels or international airlines in the United States, providing services required for normal operation and intending to depart the United States on the same vessel or any other vessel within 29 days. If you travel to the United States to join the  vessel  you will work on, in addition to a crewmember (D) visa, you also need a  transit (C-1)  visa or a combination C-1/D visa.

Travel purposes which require Crewmember (D) Visas - Examples:

  • pilot or flight attendant on a commercial airplane
  • captain, engineer, or deckhand on a sea vessel
  • lifeguard, cook, waiter, beautician, or other service staff on a cruise ship
  • trainee on board a training vessel

Travel purposes not permitted on Crewmember (D) Visas - Examples:

How to apply.

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply. Please consult the instructions available on the  embassy or consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

  • Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application,  Form DS-160  –  Learn more  about completing the  DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
  • Photo  – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live.

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

  • Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality.  Fee information is provided below: 

Select your nationality to see your Issuance Fee

  • Review the instructions available on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

  • Passport valid for travel to the United States  - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by  country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family memebrs listed in your passport.
  • Nonimmigrant Visa Application ,   Form DS-160   confirmation page.
  • Application fee payment receipt , if you are required to pay before your interview
  • Photo  – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the  photo upload fails , you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualifications for a crewmember visa, and may request additional documents. If transiting the United States to meet a vessel, be prepared to provide evidence you are transiting to meet the vessel, for example, a letter from your employer or your employer's agent.

Additional requested documents may include evidence of:

  • The purpose of your trip;
  • Your intent to depart the United States after your trip; and/or
  • Your ability to pay all costs of the trip. 

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a crewmember visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the visa in the category for which you are applying.

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing . The consular officer will inform you if this is required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you. Review the visa processing times to learn more.

Crewmembers Traveling to Meet Vessels

If you travel to the United States to meet and board the vessel you will work on, you need a  transit (C-1) visa . (This is in addition to the crewmember (D) visa required to work on the vessel.) The interviewing consular officer may request that you provide evidence you are transiting to meet the vessel, for example, a letter from your employer or employer's agent.

If you apply for the transit (C-1) visa at the same time as your crewmember (D) visa, you may be issued a combination C-1/D visa, if the reciprocity schedule for your country of citizenship allows for issuance of a C-1/D visa, and if the consular officer determines you are qualified. Select the  country reciprocity schedules  for more information.

Additional Information

  • You may apply for a crewmember visa without being employed at the time of your visa application. However, the crewmember visa may only be used for entry to a U.S. port if you are employed on the sea vessel or aircraft on which you arrive.
  • There is no guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
  • Crewmember (D) visa holders must depart the United States on a vessel within 29 days. The United States is defined as including the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You are not considered to have departed the United States until the vessel you are on travels to international waters destined to a foreign port.
  • The operating base is where the vessel takes on supplies regularly, where the cargo of the vessel is sold ,  or where the owner or master of the vessel engages in business transactions. 
  • Your spouse and unmarried, minor children may apply for  visitor (B) visas  to accompany you, if they will not perform services required for normal operation of the vessel.
  • If your spouse and/or children plan to enter the United States for another purpose, then they must apply for the visa category required for that purpose of travel. Review  all visa categories .
  • A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities and waivers.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review  How to Apply , above).

I was refused a visa, under section INA 214(b). May I reapply?

You may reapply if you believe you have additional evidence of your qualifications for a crewmember visa, or you believe your circumstances have changed. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the U.S. for the purpose of travel, as a crewmember. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Further Questions

  • Case-Specific Questions  - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
  • General Questions  - review  Contact Us .

More Information

A-Z Index Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Border Security/Safety Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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entering us by cruise ship

Guide to Cruise Passport Policies for U.S. Travelers

  • February 20, 2024
  • Laura Soper

a cruise ship docked at an international port

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Do you need a passport for a cruise.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Travel Documentation

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

Closed-Loop Cruises

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

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

Open-Loop Cruises

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

Popular Cruise Lines and Their Passport Policies

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

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

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

Carnival Cruise Line

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

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

Travel Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

Passport Requirements and Validity for American Citizens and Children

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

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

Visa Requirements

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

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

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

Royal Caribbean International

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

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

For American travelers, the following travel documents are required:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Norwegian Cruise Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Princess Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disney Cruise Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holland America Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparing for Your Cruise: Passport Tips and Best Practices

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

First-Time Passport Applicants

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

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

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

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

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

U.S. Passport Expiration Requirements for Cruises

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

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

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

Travel Requirements for Cruises with Kids

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

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

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

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

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

Taking a Cruise As A Group Getaway

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

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

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

The Benefits Of Carrying A Passport On A Cruise

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

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

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

Passport Policies for Cruises – FAQs

Q: Do infants and children need passports for cruises?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  • Canada (Alaska/Pacific Coastal)

US Citizen arriving in Vancouver

By meh56 , April 20, 2019 in Canada (Alaska/Pacific Coastal)

Recommended Posts

Cool Cruiser

We will be sailing out of Vancouver on a pacific coastal to Los Angeles.  I recently saw something on cruise critic that said you are taken to a room

and then have to wait in some area before we proceed to passport security.  Can someone explain the procedure to me.  We are staying at the 

hotel in the airport and then going to the cruise terminal the next day.  We are not traveling as any group but have made our own arrangements.  It sounds

like this maybe more than we want to do as my husband has some health issues and will require a wheel chair on arrival. Any information would be 

appreciated.

Link to comment

Share on other sites, earl rosebery.

I’m not at all sure what you are worried about. Are you talking about Canadian customs at the airport or US customs at the cruise terminal?  Canadian customs at the airport are friendly and efficient.

At the cruise port You will be pre clearing US customs and immigration.   The procedure is no different than clearing customs at an airport. You shouldn’t have any problems whatsoever.  Especially if your husband is in a wheelchair.  Ask your cruise company what help they can provide.  Normally they have a representative at the airport.  The size of your ship, other ships in port are factors.  Don’t show up too too early or at the last minute. You will be fine.

I am asking about arrival at Vancouver airport. I read that after arriving in Vancouver you are escorted to a waiting room where you wait until you met with Canadian customs. I was concerned with the  length of time and this procedure. We have always just gone on our own to customs and to get our luggage. We are overnighting at the Fairmont in the airport and going to the pier the next day. We are saying on NCL Joy which I think is the only ship on port that day.

martincath

You've been  misinformed, or are confusing reports of US Preclearance at the pier with what happens at the airport. Like any foreign country, when flying in from the US you will make your way to Immigration screening as soon as you are off the plane. Depending which gate that might involve a long walk, so ensure that you request in advance a wheelchair or buggy transfer - if you are driven around on a golf buggy I guess you could see that as being 'escorted' but it's not to a waiting room, it's to a huge room with many queues to do your immigration right away, no staging area first like at the pier.

Once you get to the big CBSA room, you can join any queue except the ones that specify Canadian Citizens or NEXUS (unless you have a NEXUS membership of course). The wait time is VERY random! If just your plane arrived in the last 20mins, you might walk right up to a kiosk - if three widebodies all touched down about the same time you could be waiting almost an hour to get to the front of the queue.

If you are being escorted, they might drive you over to a dedicated Accessible line which should be shorter and only used by folks in wheelchairs etc., but that seems to depend how busy the room is (I don't always recall seeing any kind of dedciated queue for folks with mobility issues). We have Kiosks to process you, as well as manned desks - the kiosks are usually faster and they are very simple to use; they do Customs declaration as well as your immigration so you don't need to fill out a form manually if you use a kiosk.

Once you are allowed entry to Canada, you then go collect your baggage and hand over your Customs form (unless you declared something illegal/license requiring, it's usually just 'hand it over and keep walking') then head on out to the welcome lounge. Many leaflets for tourist sites, green vested volunteers to answer questions, lots of folks waiting to meet their relatives, some huge statues to make for easy 'meet me at the big statues grampa!' meetups, that sort of thing. Signs on the ceiling point the way to SkyTrain, taxis, limos, etc. but since you're in the Fairmont you hang a left and just keep walking to the hotel entrance which is inside the same building.

Next morning, you can walk back through the airport to the Taxi rank - it will cost $35 exactly (CAD) and you can pay with Visa/MasterCard, or US cash at a poor exchange rate.

Thank you Martincath, that is exactly what I needed to know....that is what I thought should happen.  I just wanted to make sure I can make it as easy for us as possible...we will definitely get a wheelchair....thank you

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Colombia updates entry requirements for Cruise Ship passengers

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The Ministry of Health and Social Protection updated the requirements for all international passengers entering the country via air or sea. Signed into effect by Minister of Health Fernando Ruíz Gómez on January 26, 2022, Resolution 111 aligns current entry rules for air travel with new maritime regulations, and which apply to all passengers, port operators, ship and flight crews, as well as customs and cargo agents.

“All international passengers, age 18 or over, who enter the country much present a complete vaccination certificate with at least 14-days post immunization.  The accepted vaccines are those authorized by the World Health Organization,” reads article 3.1

“Foreigners, age 18 or over, and non-residents of Colombia, who do not present a complete vaccination certificate, or have not met the 14-day post immunization period, must present a negative COVID-19 test issued no later than 72-hours prior to departure. Non-residents can also provide proof of an antigen test, issued within 48 hours.”

Within article 3.2 (see below in Spanish), the resolution also states that “Non-resident foreigners who are not vaccinated are not exempt from these entry requirements, nor is a PCR or antigen test an alternative to enter the country.”

The same rules apply to Colombians, diplomats and permanent residents (article 3.3). In other words, if you are fully vaccinated and received your second dose, at least 14 days before traveling, you do not need a PCR or antigen test to enter by air or sea. If, however, you are still waiting for a second jab, you must present a negative PCR test issued by a medical authority within 72 hours of departure. For passengers on a cruise, the 72 hours applies to the port of embarkment.

A hard copy, or digital version of a vaccinate certificate, is valid proof for immigration authorities. All travelers must also complete the Check-MIG App of Migración Colombia at least 48 hours prior to departure.

Minister Ruíz updated the maritime guidelines to ease on-arrival requirements for international passengers during a busy winter season when major cruise operators include Cartagena and San Andrés in their Caribbean itineraries.

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Cruise ship boss explains why staff will ignore cabin 'do not disturb' signs after 24 hours

Cruise ship boss explains why staff will ignore cabin 'do not disturb' signs after 24 hours

Your 'do not disturb' sign means nothing after a certain while.

Tom Earnshaw

Tom Earnshaw

Another day, another cruise ship rule explained by those who run the industry.

It's no secret that the massive floating holiday boats come with their own specific rules that passengers have to follow .

Staff aren't exempt from this either, with one very strict rule often broken by cruise liner employees .

And when it comes to departures, there is one timing rule that has been brought to light in some very brutal footage .

The latest little known rule issue has been brought to light by one of the bosses of Florida-based Carnival Cruise Lines.

Englishman John Heald, a senior cruise director for the company, took to his official Facebook page to share a complaint he had directly received following a customer's recent trip on a Carnival cruise liner.

The complaint revolved around 'do not disturb' signs placed on cabin doors by customers.

For Carnival Cruise Lines, they don't have actually have 'do not disturb' signs. In their place, they have 'Snoozin' signs that come in a variety of designs.

Other ships opt for magnets, with most walls on a cruise ship magnetic due to the metal frame throughout the vessels.

A do not disturb sign to let staff know not to enter your room (Getty Stock Images)

Sharing a customer complaint about the 'do not disturb' signs on Carnival cruises, they asked John: "How would you like it if the cabin cleaner walked in on you John Herald.

"Our cleaner knocked and walked in on us ignoring the do not disturb sign we had out. This was not acceptable.

"We took away the gratuity and gave it to other crew people. Is this how Carnival trains their workers?"

Responding, John explained exactly what had happened in this particular case after investigating it within the Carnival cruising company .

Explaining the situation on his Facebook page so other cruise-goers could see it, he carefully said the exact reason for why cleaners went in to their room.

John wrote: "The reason I am sharing this post is because when it was made, early last week, it had lots of you adding your thoughts saying that this was indeed wrong and that it should not have happened.

Gorgeous waters surrounding a cruise ship (Getty Stock Images)

"I have since spoken with the Housekeeping Manager who explained what had happened. The guests had their 'SNOOZIN' sign out for more than 24 hours.

"So it is company policy that we check the safety and well being of the guests and that is what happened here.

"The state room attendant did knock as they always do before entering and as there was no reply they entered the room with the floor supervisor also there.

"The crew member was simply doing her job. I hope this explains the other side to the story. Thanks so much."

More than 1,500 people responded to John, with one saying: "Two sides to every story. I’m glad there is a policy to check on guests, this is good."

A cruise ship cabin (Getty Stock Images)

A second wrote: "Simply answering yes, we’re OK or opening the door would suffice. I’m glad it’s a policy if something happened to me while I’m on the ship I’m glad they’re looking out for my health and safety."

And a third added: "I’d definitely want someone to check on me if I hadn’t been seen or had a sign up for an extended amount of time.

"I think it’s especially important on a cruise, we run into our room attendant multiple times a day so if they don’t see me they know it’s weird."

Topics:  Cruise Ship , Holiday , World News , News , Facebook , Viral , UK News , US News , Social Media

Tom joined LADbible in 2024, specialising in SEO and trending content. He moved to the company from Reach plc where he enjoyed spells as a content editor and senior reporter for one of the country's most-read local news brands, LancsLive. When he's not in work, Tom spends his adult life as a suffering Manchester United supporter after a childhood filled with trebles and Premier League titles. You can't have it all forever, I suppose.

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FinanceBuzz

FinanceBuzz

16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

<p> Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=top+travel+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=1&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">top travel credit cards</a> and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.  </p> <p> Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?  </p> <p> Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship. </p> <p>  <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Compare+the+best+travel+credit+cards+for+nearly+free+travel&synd_backlink_position=2&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel</a>  </p>

Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the top travel credit cards and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.

Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?

Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

<p> Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.  </p> <p> Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=2&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Get+expert+advice+on+making+more+money+-+sent+straight+to+your+inbox.&synd_backlink_position=3&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.</a></p>  </p>

Pack a carry-on bag

Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.

Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

<p> You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.  </p> <p> These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.  </p>

Verify that travel documents are in order

You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.

These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.

<p> Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.  </p> <p> While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out: </p> <ul> <li>Where you can find lunch  </li><li>What time the muster drill will be at  </li><li>How to access your cabin  </li><li>Whether any special events are planned for the evening  </li> </ul> <p>  <p><a href="https://financebuzz.com/southwest-booking-secrets-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=4&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+Nearly+Secret+Things+to+Do+If+You+Fly+Southwest&synd_backlink_position=4&synd_slug=southwest-booking-secrets-55mp">7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest</a></p>  </p>

Check out the schedule on the cruise app

Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.

While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out:

  • Where you can find lunch
  • What time the muster drill will be at
  • How to access your cabin
  • Whether any special events are planned for the evening

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

<p> Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.  </p> <p> Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.  </p>

Find your cabin

Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.

Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.

<p> Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.  </p> <p> You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later. </p>

Unpack your carry-on

Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.

You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later.

<p> If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.  </p> <p> If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-no-interest-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=7&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Pay+no+interest+until+nearly+2025+with+these+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=5&synd_slug=top-no-interest-credit-cards">Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Find out if the internet works

If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.

If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up.

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

<p> You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.  </p> <p> Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.  </p>

Set your phone to airplane mode

You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.

<p> If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance. </p> <p> You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.  </p>

Dress for the day’s events

If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance.

You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.

<p> Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn. </p> <p> Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-cash-back-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=10&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Earn+up+to+5%25+cash+back+when+you+shop+with+these+leading+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=6&synd_slug=top-cash-back-credit-cards">Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Apply sunscreen

Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn.

Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time.

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

<p> Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.  </p> <p> If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy. </p>

Take anti-nausea medication

Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.

If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy.

<p> Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.  </p> <p> All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.  </p> <p> You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.</p>

Attend the mandatory muster drill

Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.

All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.

You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.

<p> Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.  </p> <p> While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.</p><p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/1000-in-the-bank?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=13&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+savvy+moves+when+you+have+%241%2C000+in+the+bank&synd_backlink_position=7&synd_slug=1000-in-the-bank">7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank</a></p>  </p>

Explore your surroundings

Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.

While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.

7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank

<p>Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.  </p> <p> Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away. </p>

Consider choosing an e-muster

Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.

Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away.

<p> You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.  </p> <p> Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots. </p>

Double-check reservations — or make them in the first place

You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.

Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots.

<p> There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.  </p> <p> Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-signs-of-financial-fitness?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=16&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=5+Signs+You%E2%80%99re+Doing+Better+Financially+Than+the+Average+American&synd_backlink_position=8&synd_slug=top-signs-of-financial-fitness-2">5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American</a></p>  </p>

Find the best spot to enjoy embarking

There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.

Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it.

5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American

<p> You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.  </p> <p> The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.  </p>

Unpack the rest of your bags

You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.

The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

<p>Follow this simple 16-step checklist to <a href="https://financebuzz.com/seniors-throw-money-away-tp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=avoid+wasting+money&synd_backlink_position=9&synd_slug=seniors-throw-money-away-tp">avoid wasting money</a> and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.</p><p>You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.</p> <p>  <p class=""><b>More from FinanceBuzz:</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.financebuzz.com/supplement-income-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+things+to+do+if+you%E2%80%99re+barely+scraping+by+financially.&synd_backlink_position=10&synd_slug=supplement-income-55mp">7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=12+legit+ways+to+earn+extra+cash&synd_backlink_position=11&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">12 legit ways to earn extra cash</a><a href="https://financebuzz.com/ways-to-make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=.&synd_backlink_position=12&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/offer/bypass/637?source=%2Flatest%2Fmsn%2Fslideshow%2Ffeed%2F&aff_id=1006&aff_sub=msn&aff_sub2=&aff_sub3=&aff_sub4=feed&aff_sub5=%7Bimpressionid%7D&aff_click_id=&aff_unique1=%7Baff_unique1%7D&aff_unique2=&aff_unique3=&aff_unique4=&aff_unique5=%7Baff_unique5%7D&rendered_slug=/latest/msn/slideshow/feed/&contentblockid=984&contentblockversionid=17466&ml_sort_id=&sorted_item_id=&widget_type=&cms_offer_id=637&keywords=&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Can+you+retire+early%3F+Take+this+quiz+and+find+out.&synd_backlink_position=13&synd_slug=offer/bypass/637">Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=9+simple+ways+to+make+up+to+an+extra+%24200%2Fday&synd_backlink_position=14&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day</a></li> </ul>  </p>

Bottom line

Follow this simple 16-step checklist to avoid wasting money and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.

You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.

More from FinanceBuzz:

  • 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
  • 12 legit ways to earn extra cash .
  • Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
  • 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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P.E.I.'s first cruise ship of the year marks early start to Island tourism season

Ship arrives in time for solar eclipse, as tourism association hoping for another strong season.

Cruise ship entering the harbour as sun rises.

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The first cruise ship of the season sailed into Charlottetown Harbour on Monday morning, ahead of the total solar eclipse, though some tourist shops along the waterfront remained closed.

The MSC Poesia, which arrived around 8 a.m., is scheduled to depart at 5 p.m.

It can carry more than 3,000 passengers and nearly 1,000 crew members. It's roughly two and a half weeks earlier than last year's first port call. 

Nellies and Reggies souvenir and gift shop was one of the few stores at Peakes Quay open for business Monday.

  • Charlottetown poised for record-breaking cruise ship season in 2024
  • P.E.I. tourism operators optimistic with high turnout at job fair

Owner Nellie Murray said she took advantage of the nice weather to take the plywood off the windows and start sales for the season. She said she usually can't find staff until May.

"I'm just going to work around today at getting things ready for the season," she said.

Murray said sales have improved year-over-year since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and she's hoping that trend continues this season.

"I'm finding more and more people are wanting to travel and get out of where they are just for a change, even in the Maritimes," she said.

Woman standing behind counter in tourist shop.

Corryn Clemence, CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of P.E.I., said while there won't be as many conventions and other events as last year, operators are hoping for a strong year for both golf and leisure.

"There's I think four big fish conventions coming in," she said, each bringing at least 400 delegates starting in May. "We have a lot of great festivals and events that are taking place this year, some that are happening standard in the summer season, but some ... into the fall."

People taking photos of Port Charlottetown sign with cruise ship in background.

Clemence said a strong tourism season is good news for the Island, even though some may complain about the extra traffic and people.

"As Islanders, maybe sometimes we take it for granted," she said. "But the tax revenues that are generated by our industry help to support so many other areas within government ... education, health care, all of these roadways and infrastructures."

Two more cruise ships are scheduled to arrive in Charlottetown this month: the Viking Polaris on April 25, and the Volendam four days later.

In total, 96 cruise ships are scheduled to visit Charlottetown this year.

The busiest day is expected to be Oct. 1, when the harbour will see four ships docked at the same time.

With files from Tony Davis

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Coast Guard searching for man who jumped from cruise ship in front of his family

Officials say the man jumped off the 18-story Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles of Great Inagua. in front of his father and brother.

Royal Caribbean Liberty of the seas Cruise Ship FILE PHOTO: Falmouth, Jamaica - March 14 2019: Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas Cruise Ship sails near the coast of Falmouth Jamaica. On April 4, 2024, a 20-year-old jumped from the ship. (Debbie Ann Powell/Getty Images)

The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a 20-year-old man who jumped from the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise in front of his father and brother Thursday morning off the Bahamas.

>> Read more trending news

Officials said the man jumped off the 18-story Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles from Great Inagua in front of his father and brother, according to United Press International.

“The ship’s crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, who has taken over the search,” a spokesman for Royal Caribbean said in a statement. The Liberty of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s ships.

“Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest’s family during this difficult time. For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share.”

#Breaking @USCG crews are searching for a 20-year-old man who went overboard from the Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles from Great Inagua this morning. USCG Cutter Seneca and Air Station Miami HC-144 crews are conducting the search. #USCG #SAR pic.twitter.com/zZPpKOdyCn — USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) April 4, 2024

The Liberty of the Seas cruise ship is the 35th largest in the world, the Coast Guard said.

Witnesses said the man’s father and brother watched as he jumped, seemingly on a spur of the moment decision, over the side, according to The New York Post.

“I had hung out with him and his brother in the hot tub until 3:30,” passenger Bryan Sims told the Post.

“He was pretty drunk,” Sims continued. “As we were walking from the hot tub back to the elevators, his dad and brother were walking towards us. His dad was fussing at him for being drunk, I guess.

“When we got to them, he said to his dad, ‘I’ll fix this right now.’ And he jumped out the window in front of us all.”

The cruise set sail from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Monday and is set to return on Friday, according to CruiseMapper .

Note: If you or someone you know is thinking of harming themselves, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free support via the Lifeline by dialing 988 . For more about risk factors and warning signs, visit the organization’s official website .

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Cruise ship dancer from nyc arrested in florida on child porn charges.

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A cruise ship dancer from the Big Apple has been arrested in Florida for allegedly possessing and distributing child sex abuse material — with victims as young as 2 years old engaged in sexual acts with adults.

Jamaal Wade, 26, of Washington Heights, was arrested by US Marshals in Broward County on Sunday and charged with receipt, possession and distribution of child porn, WPLG reported .

It was not immediately clear if the arrest was made before or after a cruise.

“Wade distributed files containing sexually explicit images of minors from/on a computer in New York, New York via the Telegram messaging application,” states a complaint filed by the Southern District Court of New York obtained by The Post.

The victims were described as “prepubescent minors and minors who had not attained 12 years of age.”

entering us by cruise ship

An investigation was launched in October after federal agents seized the phone of a user of the messaging app Telegram. Wade allegedly sent that person child sexual abuse material depicting victims as young as 2.

The recipient told authorities he had gone to Wade’s Manhattan apartment to view the illicit material with him. He “also provided the username of an Instagram account used by Jamaal,” the filing says.

In January, the person sent the covert FBI employee eight videos “depicting male children between the ages of approximately four and eight years old engaged in sexual activities, including oral and anal penetration, with adult males,” it adds.

Jamaal Wade

Wade also told the man he had been arrested in Detroit for conduct “while on tour.”

Detroit police records confirmed that he was arrested on Feb. 18, 2020, after being accused of molesting an 11-year-old boy. It was unclear whether he was convicted.

The suspect has allegedly admitted in online chats to molesting a boy while “on tour with a performance group.”

Jamaal Wade

During the probe, a federal agent began chatting with Wade, who sent them several videos of young boys being raped and sexually abused, according to the court filing.

He also mentioned working on cruise ships as a dancer, though the document does not mention which company.

But in a 2020 profile posted by a staffing site , Jamaal Wade is described as having worked for both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines, as well as on stage.

Jamaal Wade

In a March 22 chat, Wade reportedly told the FBI agent that he had “brought his ‘collection’” of child sexual abuse material “on board the ship.”

He was charged with ​one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

He could face up to 20 years behind bars on each count if convicted.

As of Tuesday, Wade remained in the Paul Rein Detention Facility in Pompano Beach awaiting extradition to Manhattan, WPLG reported.

The Post has reached out to Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines for comment.

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COMMENTS

  1. Cruise Ship Passengers

    The cruise ship should have procedures in place for handling a crime onboard. Follow local laws and customs. If you break the law, you may be arrested and prosecuted. If you are the victim of a crime on shore, report it to local authorities, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and to cruise ship security personnel.

  2. Everything Alaska & Canadian Cruisers Need to Know ...

    Since cruise ships were not allowed into Canadian ports in 2020 or 2021, the process only began affecting cruise passengers in 2022. ... There is a "Save traveler" feature that allows you to enter ...

  3. Entering US on Cruise Ship

    The US has no requirement for a US citizen or legal resident to be vaccinated and boosted in order to reenter the country . Your cruise line has a requirement, but for most cruise lines at this time it's just a requirement to be vaccinated with no booster mandated to board their ships regardless of their ports of embarkation and disembarkation.

  4. Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S

    Updated Date: April 21, 2022 Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.

  5. Passenger information, directions and transportation

    Information update. The safety of passengers and guests who visit Canada Place is extremely important to us. For key health and vaccination information for cruise ship passengers, please visit the Government of Canada's website for specific details on entry requirements into the country.. For cruise line specific information, please contact your travel agent or visit the "Know Before You ...

  6. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

    U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting.

  7. US Travel Requirements Visiting Canada

    Most countries no longer require a re-entry test. Should you need a test to re-enter your country of residence, please visit the Guest Relations desk onboard the ship. PRE-CRUISE Test Kit Resources for U.S. Guests. Celebrity Cruises has also worked with its trusted vendors to make options for procuring monitored/proctored test kits available to ...

  8. Do the new COVID-19 testing rules apply to cruisers?

    No. Since the testing requirement announced on Thursday only will apply to travelers arriving in the U.S. by airplane, travelers arriving in the U.S. by cruise ship will not need a negative result on a COVID-19 test to enter the country. In other words, if you cruise out of a U.S. port such as PortMiami to such international ports as Cozumel in ...

  9. Know Before You Visit

    Almost a million individuals enter the U.S. daily. Everyone arriving at a port of entry to the U.S. is subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers for compliance with immigration, customs and agriculture regulations. The more international travelers know about what to expect, the easier and quicker the process becomes. Last ...

  10. DHS Releases Details for Fully Vaccinated, Non-Citizen Travelers to

    WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that non-citizen travelers who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and have appropriate documentation will be permitted to enter the United States via land ports of entry (POE) and ferry terminals starting on November 8, 2021. This shift eases long-standing restrictions on non-essential travel, consistent with public ...

  11. Immigration and Documentation for Cruise Vacations

    All cruise ships are required to file a passenger manifest with the National Immigration Naturalization Service (I.N.S) prior to sailing. ... The United States requires that travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program have an e-Passport if their passport was issued on or after October 26, 2006. Travel For Non-U.S ...

  12. Can I Use Global Entry at Cruise Ports?

    Yes, you can use it to easily clear customs when you return back to a U.S. homeport. However, at the time of publication, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale is the only cruise port currently ...

  13. Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of

    Updated Date: April 21, 2022 As of Thursday, April 21, 2022, DHS will extend COVID-19-related land border entry requirements. Non-U.S. travelers seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.

  14. What to Expect When You Return

    You may also call the CBP INFO Center at 877-227-5511. If calling within the United States, call 202-325-8000 or go to www.cbp.gov and click on Questions/Comments. Complete the CBP Declaration Form 6059BYou have several entry options once you return from your trip. All travelers must complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B itemizing all purchased ...

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

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

  16. You could breeze through US customs more quickly after your next cruise

    For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter. How it works. The technology is currently in place in 11 major cruise ports, including Bayonne, Miami, New Orleans, Port Canaveral, San Juan, Tampa, Galveston, Mobile, Manhattan, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and Seattle, and there are plans for further expansion.

  17. Crewmember Visa

    Crewmember Visa. Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Crewmember (D) visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons working on board commercial sea vessels or international airlines in the ...

  18. Countries That Require Visas for a Cruise

    A tourist visa is required in Vietnam and can be obtained from the ship on ocean cruises. Passengers on river cruises will need a visa in advance (visa fees are about $25). The application can be ...

  19. Booking a cruise from the US this summer? Here's what you need ...

    Carnival Cruise Line has announced plans to resume sailing from Port of Galveston in Texas and PortMiami in Florida with vaccination requirements. The company's announcement came on the same day ...

  20. Guide to Cruise Passport Policies for U.S. Travelers

    Guests must present and carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of their cruise. Closed-loop cruises: These cruises start and conclude at the same U.S. port. U.S. citizens typically do not need a passport book for closed-loop cruises; however, travelers must present: a boarding pass, and.

  21. New Requirement for European Travel in 2024

    Starting in 2024, the European Commission will roll out an electronic travel authorization system called ETIAS required by all visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. ETIAS, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System, will check the security credentials and charge a fee to travelers visiting EU ...

  22. US Citizen arriving in Vancouver

    At the cruise port You will be pre clearing US customs and immigration. The procedure is no different than clearing customs at an airport. You shouldn't have any problems whatsoever. Especially if your husband is in a wheelchair. Ask your cruise company what help they can provide. Normally they have a representative at the airport.

  23. Colombia updates entry requirements for Cruise Ship passengers

    The Ministry of Health and Social Protection updated the requirements for all international passengers entering the country via air or sea. Signed into effect by Minister of Health Fernando Ruíz Gómez on January 26, 2022, Resolution 111 aligns current entry rules for air travel with new maritime regulations, and which apply to all passengers, port operators, ship and flight crews, as well as ...

  24. Cruise ship boss explains why staff enter cabins 24 hours after 'do not

    00:00. 00:28. The latest little known rule issue has been brought to light by one of the bosses of Florida-based Carnival Cruise Lines. Englishman John Heald, a senior cruise director for the ...

  25. 16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

    Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship. Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel. Set the ...

  26. P.E.I.'s first cruise ship of the year marks early start to Island

    The first cruise ship of the season sailed into Charlottetown Harbour on Monday morning, in time for the solar eclipse on the Island, though some tourist shops along the waterfront remained closed.

  27. Cruise passenger who jumped to death from ship ID'd as Levion Parker

    00:01. 00:40. The 20-year-old passenger who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise last week after an argument with his dad has been identified as a former high school football player and avid hunter ...

  28. Father of Florida cruise passenger Levion Parker, who jumped off Royal

    The father of the 20-year-old passenger who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last Thursday in a reportedly drunken, impulsive leap believes his son is still alive nearly a week later.

  29. Coast Guard searching for man who jumped from cruise ship in ...

    The Liberty of the Seas cruise ship is the 35th largest in the world, the Coast Guard said. Witnesses said the man's father and brother watched as he jumped, seemingly on a spur of the moment ...

  30. Cruise ship dancer from NYC arrested on child porn charges

    A cruise ship dancer from the Big Apple has been arrested in Florida for allegedly possessing and distributing child sex-abuse material -- with victims as young as 2 years old engaged in sexual ...