A cruise is an excellent way to bring the most popular tourist destinations to you without having to go very far on your own. Whatever the time of the year, there is never a wrong time to enjoy yourself on a cruise to whatever part of the world you dream of going. Going on a cruise may require certain important documents before boarding, so make sure you always know what you need before you get on.
Some Cruise May Require a Passport
There are three main instances where you will need a passport to get on a cruise ship.
- If you are beginning your cruise at a US port and disembark internationally, you will need a passport. For instance, if you depart from New York and arrive in Acapulco, Mexico, you will need a passport to present to officials. In the following situation since you are traveling between the US and Mexico, a passport card is valid.
- A cruise that begins at one port and ends in a different one requires a passport. Even if the two ports are both located in the US, traveling between different ports requires that the traveler have a passport before boarding the ship. Although not having a passport may not get you in as much trouble in the US as it would in other countries, it’s best to have one for your safety.
- If your cruise passes by a foreign country and is in their territorial waters, you will need a passport. Since a country with a sea or ocean has an extended border for up to 13.8 miles (22.2 km), going any closer to another country will require a passport, even if you do not step foot on their mainland.
Other Forms of Identification for a Cruise
Even if you choose to travel without a passport, you need identification regardless. An ID with your photos, such as a driver’s license or a birth certificate is both acceptable forms that can substitute a passport. You can only use the following if you are traveling between locations in the US and end in the same port you started in.
If you need a passport but don’t plan on traveling other than the cruise, you can obtain a temporary passport. This is usually done in emergencies for those who don’t have time. Even with this option, it is recommended that you get a regular passport before you go on a cruise.
Applying for a Passport
There are many places you can apply for a passport. The table below will provide the sites, and the type of services offered. Also, you can compare prices for the services.
| Acceptance Facilities | Standard Service (2-4 Weeks) | Expedited Service (2-3 Weeks) | Rush Service (1 Day – 2 Weeks) | Cost |
| Post Offices, County Clerk’s Offices, Courthouses, and Libraries | Yes | Post Office Only | No | Standard$115 (minor)$145 (adult)Expedited$175 (minor)$205 (adult) |
| Regional Agency | No | No | Yes (within 24 hours) | $160 |
| Private Expeditors | No | No | Yes | Call for Pricing |
When you submit your form, include the supporting documents for identification and proof of citizenship. Without the additional documentation, your application will get denied. Also, include the appropriate amount of payment according to the service you select. Not doing so will also result in a denial or delay in the process.
If you decide to go to a regional passport agency or private expeditor, you must show proof of travel. It can be a hotel reservation or flight itinerary. Regional agencies require an appointment. So, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to arrange a meeting. You may expect to drive out of state since not each state has an office.
Cruise Requirements
Mexico. US citizens are strongly advised to take a valid passport when going on a cruise to Mexico. There are alternative documents to consider if you don’t have a passport. However, these documents may not be accepted if the trip is not a closed-loop cruise. The alternative documents are a birth certificate, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or a passport card.
The Bahamas. A Bahamas cruise has the same requirement as a Mexico cruise. A passport is not necessary if the trip is closed loop. Regardless, it is better to travel with it if you have one. A passport card is the next best document to use as identification. For minors, a birth certificate is acceptable.
Cuba. Cuba is another of many countries that require a valid passport for entry. Also, the passport must have at least six months validity from the date of entry. In addition to a valid passport, a tourist visa is necessary. US citizens without a passport can use other documents that will prove citizenship and identity. A birth certificate, EDL, or passport card.
Alaska. US citizens do not require a passport to visit Alaska. Other forms of identification are acceptable. Non-US citizens traveling from the US will need a passport and a multiple reentry visa or B-2 Visitor’s Visa to enter Alaska.
Canada. A cruise to Canada will require a passport. All members of the NEXUS or FAST programs can use either document for entry. If you don’t have a passport, alternative documents like a birth certificate, EDL, or passport card are accepted.
The above alternative documents are accepted if you will seek entry at any borders from a cruise ship. A valid passport is mandatory if you will fly to all of them.