Do I Need A Passport?

One of the most frequently asked questions by people preparing for a cruise is whether or not they need a passport to take their cruise.  Here we will give you a definitive answer!

Carnival strongly recommends that you travel with a passport on your cruise.  Other documentation may be used to verify citizenship and allow you to board.  There are several reasons why they recommend you carry your passport and why it is the safest option for travelers!

If you travel with a passport it will expedite the embarkation and debarkation process.  Those who do not travel with a passport can expect significant delays during embarkation and debarkation because of the time that must be taken to verify citizenship and identification.

Safety is the number one reason why it is recommended that you travel with a passport.  Should you miss the boat at any port, having a passport would allow you to travel via air to meet the boat at its next port of call.  Also, should an emergency force you to return to the U.S. prior to the end of your cruise, you would be allowed to fly back to the U.S. in a timely manner.

What other documentation must I have when I travel?

For all cruises beginning or ending in the U.S. you must travel with proof of citizenship.  Proof of Citizenship must be in the form of a state issued birth certificate (or, as mentioned earlier, passport).  Certificates issued by a hospital or medical center will not be sufficient.  You must also have proof of identification.  This may be presented in the form of state issued driver’s license or photo I.D. 

(Obviously, travelers whose cruises begin or end in a foreign country must have a valid passport!  Also, if your cruise begins and ends in two different locations, i.e. it is not a closed loop, you MUST have a passport!)

What if my name has changed or will change?
For those of you who will be traveling immediate following a legal name change (for example, brides traveling on their honeymoon), you will want to be cautious about which name you use to book your travel.  It is recommended that you book your cruise under your maiden name unless you plan on having your name legally changed on your identification prior to boarding.  If you book the cruise under your married name but you arrive with identification that lists your maiden name you must provide a marriage certificate or license in order to be allowed onboard.

*Please note that this blog provides information pertaining to U.S. citizens.   Requirements for non-citizens vary and should be addressed by your VTT Cruise Agent.