ensenada cruise need passport

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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.

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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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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.

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is a passport required to travel to Ensenada by cruise ship? - Ensenada Forum

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The correct answer is *it depends*. The U.S. State Department has an entire page devoted to your question alone. (sorry I cannot cut & paste as I am on 2 separate devices). The website is:

https://travel.state.gov

Look for the topic 'Cruise Ship Passenvers' and all of your questions will be answered there. Hope this helps, safe travels.

¡Diviertanse!

If you're getting off the ship in Ensenada, then yes, you need a passport. If you're just docking in Ensenada but never setting foot on Mexican soil, then technically no... but it's still a good idea to take a passport anyway. What if there's a problem and you end up having to leave the ship in Mexico?

I clearly understand the question .. But.. Let me say while driving thru the border crossing last month I asked agent .. would I be able to pass thru with a Ca. drivers lic. or expired passport. and the answer was.. yes.

.They said ..If you have ever had a pass port it will show on our screen. current or not. Same with a Ca lic.

Not sure what Paradise's response (#3) has to do with the OP's original question, but okay. Driving across the border has nothing to do with arriving by sea. Anyway.......

But check with the cruise ship for there policies.. Because you do need a passport for some cruiseship and depends were you going.

Like i said you can go

Off the boat and i have also confirmed it with some cruise ship.. But yes for most cruise ship you need a passport .

But if you dont believe me looked it up...

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Documents Required to Visit Mexico on a Cruise Ship

With over 9,000 km of coastline, cruises to Mexico are popular. Cruise passengers can experience everything Mexico has to offer , from the beautiful beaches to the ancient cities built by the Aztecs and Mayas.

Travelers interested in a Mexico cruise are often unsure about the paperwork they need. Requirements are not necessarily the same as when flying and each country has a different policy regarding passports and visas.

This article explains whether each of the 2 key travel documents for Mexico is required when taking a cruise or other vessel:

Mexican visa

Mexico Cruise Passport Requirements

All travelers are advised to carry a valid passport with them when taking a cruise to Mexico, regardless of their nationality and port of departure.

US citizens on closed-loop cruises , meaning they begin and end at the same US port, can travel to Mexico with proof of citizenship other than a passport. Accepted alternative documents include:

US state-issued copy of the birth certificate
Consular report of birth abroad
Certificate of naturalization and government-issued photo ID

Nevertheless, some cruise companies require that passengers carry a valid passport even on closed-loop routes. Passport cards may also be accepted , US citizens should check all the details with the agent.

Cruise companies recommend that all passengers traveling from all countries carry a passport in case they need to take an unexpected flight . Passengers who miss the departure of the ship due to unforeseen circumstances, or need to travel in an emergency will need their passport to arrange flights. Although unlikely, it’s best to be prepared.

Non-US citizens must have a passport for a cruise to Mexico. The passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date.

Do I need a Visa for a Mexican Cruise?

Cruise ship passengers from visa-exempt nations can disembark the ship at any Mexican port without a visa provided they only visit the surrounding area and embark the same ship to continue the journey.

In this case, the foreigner falls into the category of _visitor without permission to conduct remunerated activities _and has a 21-day allowance .

Mexico’s visa policy allows citizens of many nationalities to enter the country without a visa . This includes the United States , the United Kingdom, and all European countries.

Holders of valid visas for Canada, any of the Schengen countries, the UK, the US, or Japan are also exempt from Mexico visa requirements . An exemption also applies to permanent residents of Canada, Chile, Colombia, Schengen member states, Japan, Peru, the UK, and the United States.

Visa requirements for travelers from non-exempt nations

Passport holders from other nations may need to apply for a Mexican visa for their trip.

Travelers should contact their nearest Mexican embassy or consulate for guidance depending on their specific set of circumstances.

Non-US citizens departing from a port in the United States must have the relevant US visa or ESTA visa waiver.

Do cruise passengers need to complete the Mexico FMM?

The FMM, or Mexico tourist card , is required by foreigners entering Mexico by land. Passengers traveling to the country over a land border can complete the Mexico FMM form online.

Sea passengers do not need to complete the FMM form in advance, the visitor permit is issued at the first port of call in Mexico.

Tourists arriving in Mexico on a cruise should check the document requirements with the cruiseliner and/or a Mexican embassy to ensure they have everything they require for the trip.

Traveling to Mexico by Boat

The rules above apply to cruise ships. There are some differences if entering the country on another type of boat, or for foreigners taking their own vessel into Mexico.

Foreigners arriving in Mexico on a non-cruise vessel should have:

Valid passport/proof of citizenship in a foreign country
Mexico visa (if required)
Departure clearance from point of departure

On arrival by boat, passengers should approach the immigration office to receive the stamped visitor card and a temporary import permit for the vessel.

There are several other requirements for foreigners taking their own boat to Mexico. Sailors should ensure they have all the necessary paperwork in order before departure.

List of Mexico Sea Ports

Cruise ships call at the following ports in Mexico:

Cabo San Lucas
Puerto Chiapas
Puerto Vallarta
Topolobampo

Many Mexico cruises depart from the United States or Canada: companies may offer package deals that include the flights to the point of departure.

Non-US citizens taking a cruise from a departure point in the States or Canada are reminded that they need to fulfill the entry requirements for these countries also, this may require obtaining a visa or travel authorization.

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17 Best Things to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise [Port Guide]

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If you’re visiting Ensenada Mexico on a cruise, you’re in luck. Ensenada, known for its delectable cuisine, warm climate, and friendly locals, is a popular cruise stop for both Mexican Riviera cruises as well as Hawaiian cruise itineraries.

This coastal city is located about 80 miles from San Diego in the northern part of the Mexican state of Baja California. It is Baja California’s only deep water port.

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Ensenada on a cruise, including shore excursions and inexpensive or free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the Ensenada cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ensenada Cruise Port

Cruise ships dock at the Naval Cruise Terminal in Ensenada’s industrial area. The pier is located near the Malecon boardwalk avenue, putting you within a quick walk to the heart of the city.

Cruisers docking in Ensenada have the benefit of a massive 300-foot flagpole with a Mexican flag to give you bearings for navigating the town. You can’t miss it!

After you get off the ship, look for the flagpole. Take a right at the flagpole and then a left at the second intersection you come to, and you’ll be downtown on Avenida Lopez Mateos.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is located in Mexico, where the currency is the Mexican peso.

However, because it is a tourist destination, many vendors and small businesses will accept the United States dollar in small bills and debit or credit cards. There may be international transaction charge fees associated with debit or credit cards.

If you use USD instead of pesos, you might pay more overall because vendors have to exchange your dollars.

The official language spoken in Ensenada, Mexico is Spanish. However, many locals also speak English (at least enough to communicate with tourists).

Baja California, Mexico (including Ensenada) is in the Pacific Time Zone. The Eastern Time Zone is 3 hours ahead of Pacific Time Zone.

Ensenada weather is almost always delightful! During the hottest months (July and August), the average high is 84-85 degrees F, with lows in the upper 60s.

The rest of the year, high temperatures in Ensenada range from 68-69 degrees F (December through March) and the low to mid-70s (April-June, October-November). Lows can be as cool as the 50s in the wintertime but are comfortably in the 60s in the summer.

Many Ensenada attractions including excellent souvenir shopping, food and museums are within comfortable walking distance of the cruise ship terminal.

Taxis and Uber will be your best bet for getting around beyond Ensenada downtown. If you want to head to farther away excursions like La Bufadora, wineries and Las Canadas adventure park you can easily grab a taxi or Uber.

Pro Tip: Taxis are supposed to be metered, but it is smart to negotiate your fare before you start your ride.

Best Ensenada Shore Excursions

There are many shore excursions available in Ensenada. From wildlife viewing, to nature and history excursions, to food and drink stops, you’ll wish you had more time at this cruise port.

Here are some of the best Ensenada shore excursions .

1. History Museum of Ensenada

If you want to learn about the town’s rich history from prehistoric times, during U.S. prohibition and to current days, this a great place to visit. The museum is housed in the old Rivera Del Pacifico building, which is an architectural monument in itself.

Spend time touring the building, museum and the gardens and imagine the ghosts of yesteryear who came here when it was a casino. It was reportedly associated with Al Capone, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

2. Mexican Wine Tasting

The first vineyards in Ensenada were planted in 1703. The wine industry has continued to grow since then. The city of Valle De Guadalupe, a little over 12 miles from downtown, now boasts over 75 wineries.

The best way to experience wine country is to take a full-day wine tour. Most excursions include a tour of several vineyards, snacks and a visit to the wine museum. You can learn about the evolution of Mexican wine country and taste the often riper and darker fruit flavor of Mexican wine.

3. Whale Watching Tour

Between the months of December and April, gray whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm waters of Baja California to give birth to their calves. This makes for excellent whale watching experience for visitors to Ensenada.

Whale watching excursions depart from Mercado Negro and travel around Isla Todos Santos. Along the way you might see dolphins, sea lions and other whales including humpbacks, sperm whales, finbacks, pilot whales and occasionally orcas.

4. Adventure at Las Canadas Campamento

If you’re up for an active excursion, you’ll find plenty of adventure about 30 minutes south of downtown Ensenada. Las Canadas Campamento is a popular destination with a zipline canopy tour with five ziplines, multiple suspension bridges, and other activities, including swimming, biking, paddleboats, horseback riding, and ATV rentals.

You’ll need to book an excursion with transportation or take a taxi to get to Las Canadas. The canopy tour is an outstanding choice.

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

5. Pai Pai Ecotourism Park

This excursion offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to touch and feed wild animals like big cats. Pai Pai offers 40 activities built around ecological and sustainable tourism. The biggest attractions here are wild animal feeding and interactions, but you can also participate in zip lining, tequila tasting, off-road Rzr driving, and Go-Kart Racing.

There are several different packages for animal experiences, so be sure you purchase the correct ticket for the animal experience you want to have. You can book a package from Pai Pai that includes transportation from the cruise terminal, but be prepared that it takes 35-40 minutes to get here.

6. Try Famous Local Dishes at La Guerrerense

Ensenada is known as the birthplace of fish tacos, so you won’t want to miss the chance to sample the famous local fare. There are food stands throughout Ensenada, but this street food stand, in particular, has the Anthony Bourdain seal of approval.

Try the sea urchin tostada, ceviche, and fish tacos for an unforgettable Ensenada experience.

7. Drink It Up at Hussong’s Cantina

Hang out with locals and drink at Hussong’s, the oldest cantina in Baja, California. Open since 1882, this busy cantina is an affordable Ensenada favorite.

The bar serves large bags of peanuts to patrons, resulting in a unique peanut shell floor. Enjoy their famous margarita, listen to a Mexican band, or watch your favorite sporting event on the cantina’s big screens.

8. See the Power of Nature at La Bufadora

One unique natural wonder in Ensenada is the world’s largest underwater blowhole. La Bufadora is located on the Punta Banda Peninsula and spits water 100 feet in the air.

There are excursions that include kayaking to La Bufadora or you can take a 45 minute bus or taxi ride from the cruise port. Be aware that you will have to pay to park or use the bathrooms here, but on the plus side there is a flea market onsite with food and souvenirs.

9. Relax or Learn to Surf on Playa Hermosa

If the beach is on your priority list, one of the closest options to port is Malecon de Playa Hermosa. A short 9 minute taxi ride away, you’ll have a great time here snorkeling, learning how to surf, or just relaxing in the sun.

Food vendors walk the beach here and there are public bathrooms available as well as chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Related: 12 Tourist Scams that Cruisers Need to Know

10. Sample Superfood at Maya Cacao

If you love chocolate, come learn about the superfood for the ancient Mayans at the “Bean to Belly” workshop. For $35 for adults and $17.50 for children under 12 years, during this delicious excursion you can learn the history and origins of chocolate from cacao trees to beans to tasty treat. You’ll also get to make your own healthy dark chocolate drink.

11. Horseback riding at Rancho Los Bandidos

Experience a taste of what it is like to be a Mexican cowboy at Rancho Los Bandidos. This excursion has amazing reviews and is located a short 20 minute ride from the cruise port.

Your 1.5 hour long horseback ride will give you lovely views of the ocean and the rugged beauty of Baja, California. The guides are kind and informative, the horses are well cared for and helmets are included. Plus, this shorter excursion means you’ll have time to shop or sightsee before or after your horseback ride.

12. Fish Tacos at Mercado de Mariscos/Mercado Negro

Cruisers will not want to miss Ensenada’s fresh and tasty seafood at budget prices. Mercado de Mariscos (also called Ensenada Mercado Negro) is located next door to the large seafood market on the waterfront.

The market has multiple restaurants and street vendors serving up delicious mariscos including shrimp and fish tacos, ceviche, tostadas, whole fried fish and shrimp or mixed seafood cocktails.

One fun element of this street market are the variety of tasty sauces, salsas and condiments on each table. If you love seafood you should definitely add this location to your Ensenada plan.

Mercado Negro is about a 20 minute walk through downtown. If you are in a hurry grab a taxi or Uber, which will get you there in about 8 minutes.

13. Golf by the ocean in Bajamar

Golfers will love the chance to play 9 or 18 holes at this gorgeous oceanside golf course dubbed “The Pebble Beach of Mexico.” Just a 40-minute taxi or Uber ride north of the cruise port, Bajamar is an inspiring place to spend a port day and get in a round of golf.

14. Caracol Museum

Science lovers will enjoy visiting this unique natural history museum in the shape of a ship located at the harbor. The Caracol features exhibitions on earth, sea and art. Most of the exhibits are in Spanish but tour guides are great at offering English explanations and hands-on learning opportunities. Entrance fees to Caracol are inexpensive (less than $5 per person, around 60 pesos).

Free Excursions in Ensenada

15. El Parque de la Bandera

As we mentioned earlier in this post, you can’t miss the giant Mexican Flag in Ensenada. The “Banderas Monumentales Project” flag pole is over 300 feet tall and the flag measures 50 meters (164 feet) long by 28 meters (92 feet) wide.

The park surrounding the flag is a wonderful place to visit. It hosts a playground, a band shell with live music events and a giant fountain. After 8 p.m. the fountain dances to music (think a smaller version of the Bellagio show in Las Vegas).

16. Downtown Ensenada

Enjoying the streets of downtown Ensenada is a great way to spend time in this port. You can enjoy the atmosphere and spend as many (or few!) pesos as you’d like.

First Street Market: One block inland from the huge Mexican flag you’ll find First Street, a main shopping street in Ensenada. An outdoor market with street vendors selling Mexican cuisine and colorful souvenirs, the First Street Market is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

17. Plaza Civica Cultural Center

In Hispanic cultures, city plazas or town squares are a culturally significant place to gather. In the central area of Ensenada, the Plaza Civica Cultural Center has gorgeous ocean vistas and is a lovely place to people watch.

A guided trip is a great option, where you can learn more about Mexico’s history as well as more information about three important figures honored in the plaza with golden busts: Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo, and Venustiano Carranza.

Ensenada Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit ensenada .

Weather wise the best time of year to visit Ensenada is Late May to mid-October. This will give you the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor excursions.

How far is downtown Ensenada from the cruise port?

The main downtown area of Ensenada is an easy 15 minute walk from the cruise port. There are many taxis near the port area if you want to catch a ride and save your legs for walking downtown.

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Ensenada Cruise Port

Ensenada is one of the best places to get a glimpse of the beautiful Mexican culture as well as eat tasty seafood tacos, drink refreshing margaritas and experience exciting excursions.

Have you been to Ensenada, Mexico? If so what do you enjoy most? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Ultimate Planning Guide For Short Baja Mexico Cruises to Ensenada

One of the most popular cruises to take from Southern California is a 3-5 day Baja Mexico Cruise. These cruises depart from San Diego and Los Angeles and because they are shorter than other itineraries, they are perfect for first-time cruisers and those who don't have a lot of time off from work. They are also perfectly priced and affordable so they are easy to budget for too. Ensenada is often looked at as a secondary port used primarily for ships to use so they can satisfy the requirements stipulating they must visit a foreign port before coming hope. However, we think Ensenada has a lot to offer ... you just need to know what to look for or you might miss out on this wonderful taste of Baja!

Booze Cruise Or Romantic Getaway - What Are You Looking For On Your Ensenada Cruise Vacation?

Until the past few years, Ensenada cruises were mostly the domain of the party boats from Carnival. The two Fantasy class vessels they had home ported in Long Beach (Los Angeles) were old and small but worked fabulously as booze cruises. Carnival Radiance has taken over those itineraries but the reputation of rock bottom prices and three day cruise itineraries that leave on Friday and return on Monday help to attract a crowd looking to party hard and blow off some steam.

On the other hand, a slightly longer cruise itinerary from California to Ensenada Mexico such as those found on Princess will give you more of an opportunity for a quite romantic getaway.

Folks looking for a party when they want it but the ability to enjoy top quality meals and entertainment can have both with either Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line.

Whatever style of cruise you prefer is up to you and nobody should judge you. However, it is essential that you pick the right ship and cruise line for what you are looking for. We frankly enjoy all of the options available for Baja cruises from Southern California ... but sometimes we are looking for one thing and other times another.

Cruise Lines Offering Short Baja Mexico Cruises

With the addition of Royal Caribbean's Navigator of The Seas, there are now five cruise lines that sail seasonally to Ensenada from Southern California. However, while Holland America Line does visit Ensenada, they do so as part of longer Pacific Coastal or Mexican Riviera cruises .

However, Carnival, Princess, and Royal Caribbean all offer short 3-5 cruises from Los Angeles that stop in Ensenada.

Norwegian Jewel will also offer 5-day cruises from San Diego to Ensenada in the spring as well.

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With prices ranging starting at less than $200 on Carnival Radiance and Carnival Miracle these cruises make a quick and easy vacation. Be careful though, that Cheap Mexico Cruise can end up costing much more than you expected once you add up fees, taxes, and other expenses.

Regardless of which cruise ship you choose, visiting Ensenada Mexico is a great cruise itinerary from San Diego or Los Angeles.

Short Cruises Mean You Can Spend More Money On Upgraded Cabins

While the allure of spending less for a four day escape than you might on a bar crawl might be alluring but rather than going "ultra cheap" use this as your opportunity to go "ultra posh". For instance, while you could book an inside cabin on Carnival Radiance for less than $200 on many weeks ... you could get a fantastic suite for $600-$1000 instead. Both are fantastic deals but only one gives you the wow factor.

This same math works on Royal Caribbean as well where you can get a Grand Suite for just over $1,000 on many of their cruises to Ensenada from Los Angeles and have perks like priority boarding, access to the suite lounge, concierge, and other benefits to make your experience that much more special.

Even if you don't feel like splurging on a suite, the money saved on this short Ensenada cruise means you can take advantage of specialty dining or try that fancy bottle of scotch you've always wanted to taste.

Can I Get Off The Ship And Go Home From Ensenada?

If you have your passport and have gotten clearance from the ship and it is permitted by cruise line policy then there are usually ways that this is allowable. However, it is highly unusual to do so without a major reason other than simply not wanting to cruise anymore.

That being said, there is good reliable and regularly scheduled bus service from Ensenada to the border crossing into San Diego. So, if for some reason you wanted to end your Baja cruise to Ensenada early, it is easy to get home.

However, we strongly encourage anyone who might be considering this to make sure they get approval from the ship and expect to be stopped at security if they see you walking off with suitcases.

Getting From The Cruise Port To Downtown Ensenada

Cruise ships dock at Ensenada Cruiseport Village and it is an easy 10-15 minute walk to the downtown area starting with Mariscos El Guero, probably one of the best known Mariscos carts in Baja because of it's proximity to the cruise ships.

From there, some of the popular bars such as Hussong's Cantina (one of the bars that claims to be the originator of the margarita) is only about 5-10 minutes further and along the walk you'll be able to visit other shops, restaurants and bars if you would like.

Additionally, Lyft and Uber both work well in Ensenada and so if you have another spot you are looking to visit, you can easily get a ride from outside of the Ensenada cruise port.

Visiting Ensenada With Kids And Teenagers

While there are many things in Ensenada that revolve around alcohol - bars, wine tours etc. Kids and teens can have a great time visiting Ensenada on a cruise as well. With natural wonders to explore from La Bufadora to authentic Mexican food to simply grabbing a spot on the beach, you are sure to find plenty of options for excursions that will keep the young ones happy in Ensenada Mexico.

Some of these kid-friendly excursion ideas include:

La Bufadora - a geologic formation that creates a blowhole forcing waves up through a hole in the rock like a geyser.

Rancho Los Bandidos Equestrian Trails - horseback riding though the back country wilds of Baja.

Museo de Historia de Ensenada - while not for every kid, this natural history museum offers some interesting exhibits related to the native inhabitants, animals, and plants of the area.

Las Canadas Canopy Tour - this zipline will take you over some of the forests and mountains just outside of Ensenada.

If you have questions about what to do in Ensenada with kids, make sure to ask your travel advisor and/or the excursion desk on board your cruise ship.

Questions People Ask About Cruises To Ensenada, Mexico:

There area lot of questions that people ask about visiting Ensenada on a cruise. The following are a few of the most common ones but if you have others ... feel free to comment below or contact us directly so we can add them to our list and help other cruises enjoy a fantastic taste of Baja!

Do you need a passport to cruise to Ensenada?

The technical answer is "no". In theory, you will not need to have a passport to take a cruise from Southern California to Ensenada. However, you will not be able to get off the ship in Mexico. We've seen people claim that they were allowed off in Ensenada but haven't seen any specific proof. Make sure to check the policies for the cruise you are considering taking as each cruise line has their own policies.

Additionally, it is simply a good idea to have your passport with you in case of emergencies. It is much easier to use your passport than carrying around a birth certificate or one of the other approved forms of documentation.

When is the best time to cruise to Ensenada?

Early summer is the best time to visit Ensenada. This is the city's peak tourism season though many cruisers will end up visiting between October and April or during the winter season because there are more cruises available. This is because many cruise ships sailing to Ensenada from San Diego and Los Angeles are up north in Alaska from May - September.

Ensenada has a similar climate to San Diego and is located about two hours south. Both enjoy relatively cool ocean currents that moderate the temperature at the coast and hot, dry interiors.

The reality is there is really no truly bad time to visit Ensenada but December-February are the most rainy. From March through November it is rare that you'll see any precipitation.

Is it safe to cruise to Ensenada?

The Mexican state of Baja California has gotten a bad name in recent years due to crime along the border and Mexico itself has never been as "safe" as popular tourism areas in the United States. With that being said, I feel completely safe when I visit Ensenada - though a follow a few basic rules:

1) Pay with cash where possible

2) Always watch your back

3) Don't over consume alcohol and avoid drugs entirely

4) Never accept rides from strangers

5) Always negotiate your taxi rate before getting into the vehicle

6) Never leave the tourist areas unless you know what you are doing

7) Don't be stupid

These aren't tough rules to follow and they are important to consider whether you are in Chicago or Ensenada if you want to stay safe.

How To Find Cruise Deals To Ensenda?

The best way to find a deal on Ensenada Mexico cruises is to work with your travel advisor. She or he can keep an eye open for limited time offers and other deals that are available from the cruise line for this itinerary. While you can always simply check the cruise websites and check for a great deal, your travel advisor will often have access to unpublished offers and group rate packages that can either save you money off the price of the cruise ... or include extra perks like open bar or free onboard credit.

Ensenada Is a Port You Should Look Forward To Visiting!

In the past, cruises from San Diego or Los Angeles to Ensenada were more of a "meh". I'll admit that on multiple occasions I never even got off the ship. My focus of those cruises was simply to spend some time at sea and I couldn't pass up the amazing cruise deals.

Today though, after spending some time exploring the area and the different options that are available, Ensenada is actually one of my most anticipated destinations on my Mexico Riviera and Baja Mexico cruises .

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Princess Cruises

3 day cruise to Ensenada - Passport Requirements

By darnoc23 , November 5, 2013 in Princess Cruises

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I would call Princess to find out the requirements.

Hi, I have contacted Princess and got different answers. If I look at the actual policy is states that Permanent Resident need only their permanent resident card. Then at the bottom, it says that All Non US Citizens require a passport. Here's the verbiage from Princess' site:

U.S. citizens traveling on U.S. roundtrip or �closed-loop� voyages may also travel with an original certified Birth Certificate presented together with a valid government-issued photo identification. In the event the names on these documents do not match due to a name change, please ensure to present appropriate legal documentation to support the name change. In this case, the name on the booking should match the name on the valid government-issued photo identification.

U.S. domestic roundtrip sailings must embark and disembark in the same U.S. port. These voyages include:

Alaska roundtrip from San Francisco or Seattle (roundtrip Seattle Cruisetours excluded)

Canada/New England roundtrip from New York

Caribbean roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, New York or San Juan

Hawaii roundtrip from Los Angeles

Mexico roundtrip from Los Angeles or San Francisco

Panama Canal roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles

Please be aware that even if your cruise does not require a passport to sail, in the event of an emergency should you be required to unexpectedly depart a vessel prior to the end of the cruise, a passport would be required to disembark the ship in a foreign country and re-enter the U.S. by air. We therefore strongly recommend that all passengers are in possession of a valid passport.

d) U.S. Permanent Residents are required to present a valid permanent resident document. See below for acceptable documents:

Permanent Resident Card (ARC/I-55 card)

Temporary ARC/I-55 card and valid government issued photo identification

Expired ARC/I-55 card and form I-797 and valid government issued photo identification

Passport with �ARC� stamp in the passport

Hi, I have contacted Princess and got different answers. If I look at the actual policy is states that Permanent Resident need only their permanent resident card. Then at the bottom, it says that All Non US Citizens require a passport. Here's the verbiage from Princess' site: d) U.S. Permanent Residents are required to present a valid permanent resident document. See below for acceptable documents: Permanent Resident Card (ARC/I-55 card) Temporary ARC/I-55 card and valid government issued photo identification Expired ARC/I-55 card and form I-797 and valid government issued photo identification Passport with �ARC� stamp in the passport

I read that as saying a current permanent resident card is all that is needed. A passport with an ARC stamp is an alternative.

However, I agree with others. Check with Princvess.

sassyredhat

We will have someone with a Phils. passport traveling with us. We went to the consulate in LA and got hers renewed in an hour.

That said, I would not let her go with us on her green card only. I'm a 'what if' kinda gal.

cherylandtk

You will also need valid passports in addition to the Green card.

You are misreading the section. It does not say that an LPR needs ONLY the green card, it says that LPRs must present their green card, or equivalent. That means in addition to whatever travel docs are required. In the same section, just below the green card statement it also says:

Non-US/Non-Canadian Passport Holders: A valid passport is required for all non-US and non-Canadian citizens for all itineraries.

The green card will, on its own, get them back INTO the US. It will not get them on the ship and out of the country, however. Best advice is to see if you can get an in-person expedited renewed passport.

1 month later...

Thanks everyone for posting their responses/recommendation. We just got back from our cruise and thankfully my wife and mom was able to join us without their passport. I'm posting this in case anyone else would have a similar situation for the Ensenada cruise. I contacted Princess before the cruise and was informed that for permanent residents all they need is their green card. However, passports are always the recommended documentation in the event of an emergency and needed to fly out from Mexico. So the verbiage that I pasted in the earlier thread was correct according to princess. Also the representative informed me that the online application when entering each passenger profile will inform me of any additional information needed. So all in all, the embarkation and disembarkation went pretty smooth documentation wise. Passport was never asked for my mom and wife. We were at the 3 day cruise of the Golden Princess.

Thanks for the info... always great to get information "straight from the horse's mouth" so to speak...:)

Yes, I was just told by my TA that our 7 month old granddaughter, could sail with us on a 3 day Ensenada cruise in Jan., with her birth certificate.

We chose not to do it because if there were an emergency we could not fly out of Mexico. She is getting a passport after Christmas. :)

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Ensenada, Mexico

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Thanks to its stunning coastline, Ensenada will give you plenty of postcard-worthy moments…, and it couldn’t be easier to get there. Escape to Mexico’s original seaside getaway with Carnival cruises to Ensenada. Once a favorite hideaway for high-rolling Hollywood stars, Ensenada is now one of Mexico’s most popular ports of call. You can sightsee, shop or kayak at Punta Banda… but the true pleasures of this festive city are culinary. That’s why a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico should top every foodie’s wish list. Have your fill of fresh oysters and sip a rich Baja merlot. Soak up the richness of the local culture as you enjoy the journey.

Try unique Baja cuisine in Ensenada, the region's seafood and culinary capital.
Shop for silver jewelry and handmade pottery on Avenida López Mateos.
Watch the sea spout at La Bufadora burst from the rocks on Punta Banda.

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Do I need a passport to cruise?

Everyone will need to present an accepted form of identification to board the ship. We strongly recommend that all guests present a passport as their form of ID on boarding day, and for some guests a passport is required.

The passport must be valid for six months after the day your cruise ends. The name on your passport should match the name on your reservation. What if my name doesn’t match?

While some other forms of ID may be accepted for your cruise, a passport is the very best option and here’s why:

A passport is the hassle-free, gold standard for traveling between countries.
Boarding and disembarking through customs with a passport is usually faster than other types of ID documents.
If you have an issue while exploring a foreign port (such as missing the ship), it’s best to have a passport with you.

Guests who do not bring required documents may be denied boarding.

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Sailing from: Vancouver

The following guidelines are based on government regulations, which are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries on your cruise itinerary.

Travelers can visit the US State Department's website for more information. All documents must be valid for the entire length of the voyage, unless otherwise noted. Guests without proper documentation will be denied boarding . When dropping off luggage upon arrival, please keep all documents in your possession to present during check-in at the terminal.

US Citizens (Including Children) Traveling to or Returning From Canada (Vancouver) by Air

Original valid US Passport

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Original valid Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST)

US Citizens (Guests 15 years of age and younger) Traveling to Canada (Vancouver) by Land or Sea

Puerto Rico birth certificates issued prior to 7/1/10 are not acceptable
Hospital-issued birth certificates are not acceptable

Children 15 years of age and younger are required to present one of the documents listed above, but do not need to present a Government-issued photo ID.

Social Security Cards and Global Entry are not acceptable proof of US citizenship for purposes of traveling outside of the US

US Legal Permanent Residents

Guests who are legal permanent residents of the US must present a valid original passport and a Permanent Resident Card to travel outside the US. Photocopies are not acceptable. If traveling by air to Canada, US Permanent Residents must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Learn more about Canadian Visa requirements and exceptions.

Canadian Citizens (Including Children)

Original valid Canadian Passport
Canadian Permanent Residents must travel with a valid passport and a Permanent Resident Card, also known as a “PRC,” to travel outside of Canada
Canadian Citizens who are 15 years of age or younger may sail with either an original valid Canadian Passport or a Canadian Birth Certificate.

Citizens of All Other Countries (Including Children)

Original valid Passport

This cruise calls at ports in Canada and the United States; therefore, Guests may be required to obtain a multi-entry visa for both Canada and/or the United States.

It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas before commencing the cruise.

Learn more about Canadian Visa requirements and exceptions.

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program, it is required to have a valid machine-readable passport and obtain 72-hour advance travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding carriers by air or sea to the US under the Visa Waiver Program. A copy of the approved ESTA application should be brought with you when traveling. View a list of applicable countries and registration requirements .

The Bahamas, Caribbean, Pacific Coast, Bermuda or Canada – Round Trip Cruises

Sailing from/to: port canaveral, miami, fort lauderdale, galveston, san diego, san juan, new orleans and new york.

Travelers can visit the US State Department's website for more information. All documents must be valid for the entire length of the voyage, unless otherwise noted. Guests without proper documentation will be denied boarding. When dropping off luggage upon arrival, please keep all documents in your possession to present during check-in at the terminal.

US Citizens (Including Children)

Original Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State AND a physical Government-issued photo ID (digital/mobile state-issued IDs are not acceptable to sail)
Original Certificate of Naturalization issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services AND a physical Government-issued photo ID (digital/mobile state-issued IDs are not acceptable to sail)

Guests who are legal permanent residents of the US must present a valid original Permanent Resident Card. Photocopies are not acceptable.

Original valid Trusted Traveler Program (NEXUS, FAST)

Citizens of All Other Countries (Including Children), Except for the Sailings Highlighted Below

Many countries require an entry based on your nationality. It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas before the cruise begins.

Caribbean – One-Way Cruises

Sailing from: galveston to san juan, san juan to miami, san juan to fort lauderdale, new york to san juan.

Travelers can visit the US State Department's website for more information. All documents must be valid for the entire length of the voyage, unless otherwise noted. Guests without proper documentation will be denied boarding. When dropping off luggage upon arrival, please keep all documents in your possession to present during check-in at the terminal.

Many countries require an entry visa based on your nationality. It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas before the cruise begins.

Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to Australia (Excluding those with a stop in New Caledonia)

Adults who are not the parent or legal guardian of a minor traveling with them must present the Minor Authorization Form signed by the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian, authorizing the adult to take the child on the specific cruise, supervise the child and allow emergency medical treatment to be administered.

All Guests Ages 18 Years and Older

Original passport, valid at least 6 months after sailing has ended OR
Government-issued photo ID

All Guests Ages 17 Years and Younger

Original valid passport, valid at least 6 months after sailing has ended OR
Government-issued ID OR
Original or copy of Government-issued birth certificate

All Non-Australian Nationalities, Including Children

Subclass 601 Electronic Travel Authority
Subclass 651 eVisitor

Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to Australia (Includes stop in New Caledonia)

Required documents for all nationalities:.

Original valid passport (valid at least 6 months after sailing has ended)
Because requirements may vary, we recommend that Guests contact their travel agent, government agency, embassy or consulate for more information on required travel documentation for the port of embarkation and all ports of call during the cruise.
Information regarding French Visas (New Caledonia is a territory of France) can be found on the official visa website for France .

Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to New Zealand

Note: Australian permanent residents must apply for NZeTA.
Information regarding New Zealand Visas and NZeTA can be found by going to the official visa website for New Zealand.

Disney Magic at Sea – New Zealand to Australia

Required documents for all nationalities, disney magic at sea – new zealand to new zealand, all non-new zealand nationalities, including children.

Information regarding New Zealand NZeTA or Visa requirements can be found on the official visa website for New Zealand.

All Nationalities (Including Children)

Original valid passport (valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended)

Round-Trip Cruises from/to Barcelona and Civitavecchia and One-Way Cruises from Barcelona to Civitavecchia, Civitavecchia to Barcelona

Original valid Passport (valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended)

These cruises call at ports in Europe, and based on your nationality, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ). It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas.

Round-Trip Cruises from/to Southampton and One-Way Cruises from Barcelona to Southampton.

These cruises call at ports in Europe and/or the United Kingdom, and based on your nationality, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ) and also the United Kingdom . It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas.

British Isles Cruises from Southampton

This cruise calls at ports in Ireland and the United Kingdom, and based on your nationality, you may be required to obtain a multiple-entry visa for Ireland, and/or the United Kingdom. It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas.

Pacific Coast, Canada or Sailings Between Hawaii and Vancouver – One Way Cruises

Us citizens (including children) traveling to or returning from canada by air, us citizens (including children) traveling to or returning from canada by land or sea.

Social Security Cards and Global Entry are not acceptable proof of US citizenship for purposes of traveling outside of the US.

Original Permanent Resident Card (photocopies are not acceptable) AND
Canadian Permanent Residents must travel with a valid passport and their Permanent Resident Card, also known as a “PRC,” to travel outside of Canada

Panama Canal

Original valid US Passport, valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended
Original Permanent Resident Card AND
Original valid Passport, valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended

Citizens of All Countries (Including Children)

Transatlantic Crossing

Fort lauderdale to barcelona.

Travelers can visit the US State Department's website for more information. All documents must be valid for the entire length of the voyage, unless otherwise noted. Guests without proper documentation will be denied boarding. When dropping off luggage upon arrival please keep all documents in possession to present during check-in at the terminal.

Original valid US Passport (valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended)

Since this cruise calls at ports in Europe, and based on your nationality, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ). It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas before commencing the cruise.

Southampton to Fort Lauderdale

The ship docks at ports in Europe and disembarks in the United States. In addition to a valid passport, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ) and/or United States based on your nationality. It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas before commencing the cruise.

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program, it is required to have a valid machine-readable passport and obtain 72-hour advance travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding carriers by air or sea to the US under the Visa Waiver Program. A copy of the approved ESTA application should be brought with you when traveling.

View a list of applicable countries and registration requirements .

South Pacific Repositioning Sailings – Honolulu to Sydney

Information regarding French visas (New Caledonia is a territory of France) can be found on the official visa website for France .

Information regarding Fiji visas can be found on the official immigration website for Fiji .

South Pacific Repositioning Sailings – Sydney to Honolulu

Because this cruise disembarks in the United States, some Guests may be required to obtain a multi-entry Visa for the United States.

Guests who are legal permanent residents of the US must present a valid original passport and a Permanent Resident Card to travel outside the US. Photocopies are not acceptable.

Information regarding Australian visas and eVisas can be found here:

Information regarding French Visas (New Caledonia is a territory of France) can be found on the official visa website for France.

Where can I cruise without a passport?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

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

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

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

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

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

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

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
Top ways cruisers waste money
12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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

The Disney Wonder cruise ship sails past glaciers in Tracy Arm Fjord as part of its Alaska itinerary. Nestled between 3,000-foot high granite walls, the narrow, twisting Tracy Arm Fjord weaves through the Tongass National Forest for roughly 35 miles. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

Deadly news helicopter crash likely caused by shaky inspections, leading to loose parts, feds say

Federal investigators say they discovered disconnected and missing hardware aboard a helicopter that crashed in 2022, killing the pilot and a North Carolina television station’s meteorologist

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Investigators found disconnected and missing hardware aboard a helicopter that crashed in 2022, killing the pilot and a North Carolina television station’s meteorologist, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

The NTSB’s final report on the 2022 crash , which was released Thursday, said the probable cause was inadequate inspections by the pilot and maintenance personnel, resulting in an eventual loosening of the hardware and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

WBTV meteorologist Jason Myers and pilot Chip Tayag died after the Robinson R44 helicopter crashed along a Charlotte-area interstate. The purpose of the flight was to provide video training for the meteorologist over a simulated news scene, according to the NTSB report. About five minutes into the flight, the helicopter began a series of 360-degree turns over Interstate 77, but during the third turn, it entered a steep descent, then crashed in a grassy area next to the highway, according to the report.

An examination of the flight controls revealed that hardware that should have been connected to a part on the main rotor was disconnected and the connecting hardware was missing, according to the report. An examination of remaining components suggested that the connecting hardware backed out during the flight, the report said. The report concluded that it is unlikely that the hardware was secure before the flight, and it may have been loose for multiple flights before the crash.

Examination of the remaining hardware found that one piece was installed backwards, most likely during an overhaul about three years before the crash. Inspection of the hardware was required by the pilot during each preflight inspection and during the most recent 100-hour inspection in October 2022, according to the report.

Maintenance records also showed that a Robinson Helicopter Company service letter instructing operators to replace certain nuts because of corrosion and cracking issues had not been complied with, according to the report.

In March 2023, Myers’ wife, Jillian Ann Myers, sued maintenance facility Wilson Air Center-North Carolina, the Total Traffic and Weather Network and iHeartMedia. Meyers worked for WBTV, and Tayag worked for the Total Traffic and Weather Network, which is owned by parent company iHeartMedia, the lawsuit states.

The lawsuit alleges negligence and claims the helicopter was running on contaminated fuel, which can lead to engine failure. It also says the pilot didn’t perform flight inspections and emergency engine failure procedures adequately. It argues the company that owned the aircraft is liable for those mistakes.

Reached by telephone on Friday, Kansas City, Missouri-based aviation attorney Gary C. Robb, who is representing the Myers family, called the maintenance errors “egregious” and said there were multiple opportunities for them to be caught. He said the family hopes to shine a light on this and other maintenance errors and “move the needle towards more safety.”

WBTV, iHeart Media and Wilson Air Center-North Carolina did not immediately respond to emails and phone calls seeking comment on the report.

COMMENTS

Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise to Ensenada?
In this case, you will need a passport book to travel on the cruise legally. For example, if your cruise departs from Los Angeles and stops in Ensenada before continuing on to Hawaii or other destinations outside of Mexico, then you'll need a passport book. This is because you'll be leaving and entering US borders during the trip.
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 ...
Passport for three 3 Night Ensenada Cruise
Visit the United Sates Department of State travel information website. Visa Central is the passport and visa service provider that we recommend. When you contact Visa Central, reference our account 44988 for reduced service fees. Contact Visa Central: Email: [email protected]. Phone: 800-858-8579.
is a passport required to travel to Ensenada by cruise ship
Actually this a rule i do know because of co workers went on a cruise ship without a passport and i looked it up. For example if you go on a cruise ship ensenda from los angelas to ensenada on a 3 or 4 day cruise you do not need a passport just your state id for a us citenzen and if your go the bahamas it has to be a closed loop...oh the co workers were allowed off the ship..
Documents Required to Visit Mexico on a Cruise Ship
Foreigners arriving in Mexico on a non-cruise vessel should have: Valid passport/proof of citizenship in a foreign country. Mexico visa (if required) Departure clearance from point of departure. On arrival by boat, passengers should approach the immigration office to receive the stamped visitor card and a temporary import permit for the vessel.
Travel Documents & Requirements
Passports are Best. A passport is the best ID document for travel. Make sure yours doesn't expire for 6 months after your cruise ends. Learn more. Caution: Birth Certificates. U.S. Citizens can cruise with a U.S. birth certificate on most sailings from the U.S. But your birth certificate needs to meet the requirements.
3 Night Ensenada Cruise
here. The 3 Night Ensenada Cruise visits Los Angeles, California; Ensenada, Mexico; Los Angeles, California. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
17 Best Things to Do in Ensenada on a Cruise [Port Guide]
13. Golf by the ocean in Bajamar. Golfers will love the chance to play 9 or 18 holes at this gorgeous oceanside golf course dubbed "The Pebble Beach of Mexico.". Just a 40-minute taxi or Uber ride north of the cruise port, Bajamar is an inspiring place to spend a port day and get in a round of golf. 14.
Do You Need a Passport to Go to Ensenada?
By Sea: If you are on a closed-loop cruise, you will not need a passport book and can visit Ensenada using your passport card, a REAL ID, or a trusted traveler's card. However, this policy depends on the cruise line as some may require you to have a valid passport book. Minors can use their birth or naturalization, or citizenship certificates.
Cruises to Ensenada, Mexico
Best Deals to Ensenada, Mexico. These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can. Discover all you need to cruise to Ensenada, Mexico. Visit royalcaribbean.com to get information on Ensenada, Mexico cruises, including things to do, dining, ports of call, cruise ships, shore excursions, offers, and more.
Ultimate Planning Guide For Short Baja Mexico Cruises to Ensenada
The technical answer is "no". In theory, you will not need to have a passport to take a cruise from Southern California to Ensenada. However, you will not be able to get off the ship in Mexico. We've seen people claim that they were allowed off in Ensenada but haven't seen any specific proof.
Do I need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?
Answer: While a valid passport book or passport card is generally required to travel beyond the border zone of Mexico and to travel by sea, there are exceptions. First, the consular services section of the Mexican embassy states, "U.S. citizens entering Mexico by sea may enter without such documents if they are visiting port towns for a short ...
Places to Cruise Without a Passport
Don't let your lack of a passport stop you. Consider a cruise. If you take closed loop cruises (meaning your trip begins and ends at a U.S. port), you can sail to a variety of dreamy destinations as a U.S. citizen without a passport. For "closed-loop" cruises, U.S. citizens will need to provide: A boarding pass
Do you need a passport to cruise to Mexico? It depends, experts say
We're going on a very short cruise from California to Mexico this spring. Do we need passports for our kids, even if we don't get off the ship? — Ben, Springfield, Va. 59 Comments.
3 day cruise to Ensenada
Hopefully someone can provide some options. We've reserved a 3 day cruise to Ensenada for this month. Unfortunately, my wife and mother's passport have expired. They're both non US citizens but have a valid green card. The expired passports are their Phillippine passports and will take 6 - 8 weeks.
Cruise Ship Passengers
Write down the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. Always carry your passport book with you in case of an emergency. You may need your passport in the event of an unexpected medical evacuation or if the ship docks at an alternate port. You should bring your passport even if your cruise says you ...
Ensenada Cruises
Ensenada, Mexico. Thanks to its stunning coastline, Ensenada will give you plenty of postcard-worthy moments…, and it couldn't be easier to get there. Escape to Mexico's original seaside getaway with Carnival cruises to Ensenada. Once a favorite hideaway for high-rolling Hollywood stars, Ensenada is now one of Mexico's most popular ...
Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?
You Need a Passport for Cruises To and From Foreign Ports. If you are a U.S. citizen and your cruise embarks or disembarks in a foreign country, including Canada, you will always need your ...
Travel Documents
Travel Documentation: U.S. Permanent Residents. Carnival requires guests to provide proper travel documentation in order to travel. The documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise and is the responsibility of the... Date Updated: 02/07/2024.
Do You Need a Passport For a Cruise?
A. Everyone will need to present an accepted form of identification to board the ship. We strongly recommend that all guests present a passport as their form of ID on boarding day, and for some guests a passport is required. The passport must be valid for six months after the day your cruise ends. The name on your passport should match the name ...
Passport and Travel Documentation
Required Documents for All Nationalities. Original valid passport (valid at least 6 months after sailing has ended) Guests who are not citizens or permanent residents of Australia may be required to have a Visa for Australia. An entry Visa may also be required for New Zealand, based upon nationality.
Where can I cruise without a passport?
Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these ...
Deadly news helicopter crash likely caused by shaky inspections
FILE - In this image taken with a drone, emergency personnel work at the scene of a helicopter crash on the side of Interstate 77 South in Charlotte, N.C., Nov. 22, 2022. Investigators found ...