cruise with passport card

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U.S. Passport Card

The passport card will facilitate entry and expedite document processing at U.S. land and sea ports-of-entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air outside the United States . It will otherwise carry the rights and privileges of the U.S. passport book. The Department of State is issuing the passport card in response to the needs of border resident communities for a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book. The card has the same validity period as a passport book: 10 years for an adult (age 16 and older); five years for minors (under 16 years of age).

• New passport card cost: $55 (age 16 and older) | $40 (minors under 16 years of age)
• Passport card renewal (by mail) cost: $30 

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• Travel Documentation: U.S. Permanent Residents
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GETTING ONBOARD

Required travel documents.

GETTING ONBOARD WITH

THE RIGHT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

It’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries your cruise visits. We’ll require government-issued identification to board. And government authorities may require you to have a visa or meet other requirements.

Select your departure port below to find out exactly what you need. But be aware – government requirements may change.

Don't Get Caught Without The Right Travel Doc

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. Learn more

Names Must Match If you've had a name change, and the name used across your documents does not match, you will need to take an extra step. Learn more

Cruising With Kids That Aren't Yours When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without their legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present a notarized form signed by the child's guardian. Learn more

Visas May Be Required Some countries require an entry visa or electronic visa based on your nationality. Learn more

Don't Pack Your Docs Please keep all travel documents on your person at the terminal; you’ll need to present them at check-in.

Select where you're sailing from

Popular homeports:, full list of all homeports:, travel document requirements for sailings from u.s. homeports (excluding honoulu, hawaii & seward, alaska).

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the U.S. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

Note: U.S. Cruises that visit Colombia or Panama If your sailing visits Colombia or Panama, see your protocols here .

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements of ONE of the check boxes below.

All documents must be original – no photocopies. Your name must match across documents. What if I had a name change?

• U.S. Passport Book OR U.S. Passport Card
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
• Read more about passport requirements.
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• U.S. Birth Certificates must be the original or an official document issued by the government.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements.
• Guests age 15 and under are NOT required to have a photo ID, just the birth certificate.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests must bring their physical Permanent Resident Card and it must be original – no photocopies.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID
• Barbados & Martinique require ARC guests to provide a valid passport.
• Any additional requirements are the responsibility of the guest.
• U.S. Naturalization Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate or a certified copy.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington State.
• An Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID compliant id. An EDL will have a flag on the front.
• U.S. Passport Book
• Visa may be required based on Passport Country of Origin. Learn More

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries.

• Electronic Travel Authorization will be required based on disembarkation port.
• Learn more about visa requirements.

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens

• Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.
• Guests age 14 and under may present a passport as noted above OR one of the documents below:
• Original Naturalization Certificate OR Original Valid Canadian Citizenship Card OR Original Birth Certificate Issued by Canada.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

• Canadian Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Other Nationalities

• Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

• The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
• Please check requirements for your own nationality .
• Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is required for Chinese Nationals.
• Sailings with a Canadian Port of Call (ex. Alaska sailings) may require a Canadian Visitor’s Visa.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Australian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• All visitors are required to get an Australian ETA to travel to Australia.
• Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
• All visitors are required to get a NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

• Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Australian Citizens

• Australian Passport Book
• Australian Driver's License OR Government-issued, laminated photo ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on Australian ports of call.
• If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.
• Guests age 17 and under may present one of the documents below:
• Medicare Card - Can be used as the only identification for children when all guests share the same last name.
• Original (or Certified) Birth Certificate - If the parent's name differs from the child.

* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

• Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• For Transpacific sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

• U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
• U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

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Find Out if You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise

Last updated: February 28th, 2022

• Find a Cruise

Figuring out if you need a passport to go on a cruise isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think. The answer largely depends on the destination of your cruise, which port you’re embarking and disembarking from, and which forms of ID you already have.

We always recommend you bring a U.S. passport onboard, regardless of your cruise itinerary. Traveling with a passport will always make your trip easier, especially if you encounter any unforeseen circumstances during your vacation, such as an unexpected stop at an unscheduled international port due to bad weather or a family emergency that would require you  to book a last-minute plane ticket home.

That being said, if you’re a U.S. citizen and want to know if you need a passport to go on your upcoming cruise, we’ve compiled some useful information to help you figure out which specific destinations and cruise itineraries require you to bring a passport and which ones don’t.

Do you need a passport if you fly to an international cruise departure port?

If you’re doing any international air travel to get to your cruise, then you are required to bring a valid U.S. passport book in order to board the plane.

A U.S. passport book is a government-issued document that allows U.S. citizens to travel internationally by air, land, and sea.

A valid U.S. passport book is mandatory even if you’re flying to or from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean from the United States.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to the Bahamas?

If you are cruising to the Bahamas from the U.S., the following documents are acceptable: passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are traveling to the Bahamas on a closed-loop cruise, which is a cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port, you may travel with a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original U.S. birth certificate.

Children under 16 can also travel to the Bahamas on a cruise with an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, sports team, or other organization with adult supervision.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?

If you are planning a cruise to Mexico , make sure you bring one of the following documents: U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are cruising to Mexico on a closed-loop cruise, (a journey that starts and ends at the same U.S. port), you can enter without a passport and show a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate instead.

Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

If you are cruising to the Caribbean , you will need to enter with either your U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are aboard a Caribbean closed-loop cruise, (a cruise that departs and ends at the same U.S. port), you can travel with a state-issued ID (for example: your driver’s license) and an original birth certificate. You must have both of these documents in order to be able to travel without a passport.

The following Caribbean countries require the above documentation: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks and Caicos.

Read: Best Beaches in Antigua

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to Alaska?

Even though Alaska is part of the United States, most cruise itineraries will require you to travel with a U.S. passport.

If you’re on a cruise to Alaska that begins or ends in Canada, you are required to carry a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

If you’re traveling on a closed-loop cruise to Alaska that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you can travel with a passport card or a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original birth certificate.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Hawaii?

Even though Hawaii is a U.S. state, all of our cruise itineraries require you to travel with a U.S. passport book or card.

Our Hawaii cruise itineraries either depart or end in Canada, so U.S. citizens are required to bring a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada or are flying back into the United States, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Bermuda?

If you are cruising to Bermuda , then you don’t necessarily need a U.S. passport book, but can use any of the following documents instead: U.S. passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST card), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you take a closed-loop cruise to Bermuda, you can leave your passport at home and travel instead with a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate.

Regardless, we always recommend traveling with a U.S. passport book, in case there are any inconveniences during your trip.

What’s a passport card and should you get one?

If you’re traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, you can bring a U.S. passport card instead of a passport book. However, a passport card does not work for air travel into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean.

There are some advantages to traveling with a passport card rather than a passport book, mainly cost and portability. Currently, a passport card costs only $65 to issue, while issuing a passport book is $145. For adults, both are valid for 10 years before you need to renew them. For children under 16, both are valid for 5 years.

Another benefit of a passport card is its smaller size. A passport book is 5” x 3.5” when closed and contains several pages, while a passport card can easily fit into a wallet, money belt, or pocket. (Just make sure it’s a secure pocket with a zipper so it doesn’t fall out.)

That being said, we always recommend bringing a valid passport book on your cruise. If you don’t make it back to your cruise ship on time after visiting a port, or if a family emergency requires you to fly back home from one of your cruise destinations, a passport card won’t allow you to travel on a plane. In case there are any unforeseen inconveniences, a passport book will always work as a valid travel document via air, land, and sea.

Do kids need a passport for cruises?

If children under the age of 16 are traveling internationally by air, they will need a valid U.S. passport.

If they are traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by sea on a cruise, they can travel with a U.S. passport, passport card, trusted traveler card, or an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, or other organization with adult supervision.

In addition, be sure to review other requirements for children, such as a signed and notarized letter from a missing parent if the child isn’t traveling with both parents, or a written letter of consent if the child is traveling as part of a group without an adult that is 21 or older.

When do you need a passport book to cruise?

You will always need a passport book if you are starting and ending your cruise in different ports. Even if your cruise starts and ends in U.S. cities, you will still be required to have a valid U.S. passport book in order to board.

You will also always need a passport book if you are traveling on a cruise that requires you to take an international flight to get to your departure port, such as those cruises departing from Europe, South America, or Asia. You won’t be able to board an international flight without a passport book.

If you are cruising to a destination not located within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, you need to bring a U.S. passport book; a passport card will not be allowed as a valid travel document.

Even if you are traveling on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends in the same port) to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, it is always recommended that you bring a passport book in case of an emergency or unforeseen situation that might require air travel. 

Do you always need a passport card or passport booklet to cruise?

We always recommend carrying a passport book or a passport card while vacationing on a cruise. That being said, there are certain types of cruises where you’ll be able to board with other types of documentation if you do not have either a passport book or passport card.

U.S. citizens traveling on closed-loop cruises to either Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or the Caribbean can travel with the following documentation:

• U.S. passport book or card
• Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, FAST)
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• An original copy of your government-issued birth certificate or naturalization certificate and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)

Should you bring a passport on closed-loop cruises?

While some cruises don’t require you to travel with a U.S. passport book, we always recommend you bring one on your trip, even on a closed-loop cruise . If you need to fly back to the United States during your cruise, you’ll only be able to board a plane with a passport book.

If you happen to miss the ship’s departure time during an international excursion, it will be much harder to meet your ship in the next port without a passport book on you. (Keep in mind that a shore excursion booked through Celebrity Cruises will always guarantee you’ll make it back to your ship on time.)

Also some ports of call may require a passport to enter even if you don’t need one to board your cruise. It’s always wise to research your itinerary and find out what kind of documentation each country requires of U.S. citizens in order to enter.

What else should you know about cruising with a passport?

Having a passport doesn’t mean your vacation is a go yet. You’ll also want to double check when your passport expires, as many countries require a passport to be valid for six months after the date of your planned departure. If you’re on a cruise, this means making sure your passport is still valid for another six months following the last day of the cruise.

Another thing you’ll want to check is the amount of blank pages in your passport. You should have at least one blank page for each country you’re visiting. If you don’t have enough pages left for stamps, you’ll need to renew your passport before your trip.

One major advantage of traveling on a cruise is that international customs are mostly handled for you. Before boarding, you’ll provide your passport number and other applicable information to the cruise line, which then provides this information to customs authorities in the international ports of call you’ll visit. Once this is arranged, you’ll simply get off the ship and enjoy your destination without having to go through customs each time. However, you should always double check what the passport protocol is for the cruise ports you’re visiting.

It is also your responsibility to obtain any necessary visas you may need during your cruise. Be sure to research the visa requirements for each country you’ll be visiting during your itinerary. You’ll also be in charge of any fees relating to the visa.

Note: For some itineraries, the cruise line may hold onto your passport during the duration of your trip in order to expedite the clearance formalities at each port of call. In those cases, we recommend making color photocopies of your passport to carry with you during visits to international ports.

How do you keep your passport safe on a cruise?

The most popular way to keep your passport safe while on a cruise is to store it inside a money belt or passport necklace. A money belt is a soft pouch with a zipper that can fit your passport, some cash, and a couple of credit cards. The pouch is connected to a belt that sits comfortably around your waist.

A passport necklace is similar, but is worn around your neck and inside your shirt instead. It’s not usually as discreet as a money belt, but is often more convenient and allows for easier access to your travel documents and money.

Traveling with a passport cover is also wise since it helps to keep your passport in pristine condition. Some countries won’t accept a damaged passport in customs.

What if you lose your passport during a cruise?

If you lose your passport while on a cruise, the first thing you need to do is notify the nearest U.S. consulate in order to get a replacement passport issued. Also, contact the guest relations department on your cruise ship so they can provide guidance on how to handle the rest of your cruise before you get your replacement passport.

If you lose your passport on the ship, you should fill out a lost property report with the guest relations department on board.

To help eliminate any chance of losing your passport while on the ship, we recommend keeping it in your stateroom or suite. The in-room safes are easy to use and will keep your passport in a secure place at all times. When you’re on your cruise, there is no need to carry a passport on you since you’ll use your Sea Pass card for all transactions.

Grab That Passport and Book Your Cruise!

Do you have all the right documentation in place for your preferred cruise itinerary? Then you’re all set to book your cruise and start a wonderful vacation. Browse our cruise itineraries or call one of our vacation specialists at 1-800-852-8086 to get started.

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Cruise Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

Kate H. Knapp

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Cruise passport requirements vary depending on the type of cruise you take as well as where the cruise will be sailing. Generally speaking, however, for most international cruises you’ll need either a passport book (valid beyond at least six months from departure date and containing at least two blank pages for entry stamps) or a passport card. The passport book is more expensive, but meets more of the cruise passport requirements for a larger set of destinations and circumstances, including air travel in case of an emergency.

Cruise Passport Requirements

If you’re not on a closed-loop cruise (a cruise that departs and returns from the same U.S. port), you’re required to travel with a passport that is valid at least six months beyond departure date and contains at least two blank pages for entry stamps.

If you’re taking a closed-loop cruise, you’re only required to travel with a birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID. But, it’s recommended that you travel with a passport card or passport book as well.

A passport card is more affordable than a passport book. And, because a passport card is less bulky (it’s similar in size to a driver’s license), it’s easier to carry more securely than a passport book. However, a passport card is only valid for land and sea border crossings between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. A passport book may be required in foreign ports on your itinerary and is mandatory for international flights (in case of an emergency). Therefore, a valid passport book is the most recommended and dependable form of identification in all cases of cruise travel.

How to Get a Passport for a Cruise

Apply for a passport as soon as you know you’ll be taking an international cruise. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within three weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport at USA.gov .

So, Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

In summary: If your cruise itinerary takes you outside of the U.S., then yes, you will need a passport to take a cruise. However, depending on your itinerary, you may only need a passport card instead of a full passport book that is valid beyond six weeks from your departure date and contains at least two blank pages for entry stamps. In case of an emergency, however, the passport book is recommended as the passport card will not work for air travel.

Helpful Resources When Taking a Cruise

The U.S. Department of State provides smooth sailing with a handy Traveler’s Checklist of things to do for your next cruise, as well as passport recommendations and requirements.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once onboard, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the concierge front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the room but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock .

More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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From travel document requirements to tips on what to pack, find out what to know before you go.

• Prepare for Your Cruise

An overview of the latest passport, customs, health and other essential requirements to help you prepare for your vacation.

The OceanReady® Process

Get ready for your Princess Cruise with the OceanReady® steps

Princess® MedallionClass makes cruising effortless. It all begins with the Medallion®, a quarter-sized device that never needs to be turned on or off. Download the Princess® Cruises App to complete the OceanReady® steps before you sail. You'll want to complete the following steps to ensure access to the Green Lane in the terminal for faster check-in with less waiting:

• Order and Customize your Medallion*
• Personal Information & Travel Docs
• Payment Information

Passage Contract

• Security & Profile Photos
• Emergency Information

*Currently, only available for shipping to addresses within the United States and Puerto Rico. Medallions will be available for pick-up at the terminal if one was not mailed to you.

Guests who don't complete all of the above steps in the app will access the Blue Lane for check-in, where our Navigators will help ensure all steps are complete and issue guest Medallions.

Visit  Cruise Personalizer®   to book flights and transfers, reserve shore excursions and make spa appointments, and purchase any packages if they are not already included in your booking. Before you leave for your cruise, you can print your luggage tags from Cruise Personalizer.

When you enter your personal information and upload your travel documents in the app make sure your name appears in your OceanReady® Profile exactly as entered in your passport. If the name does not match, it's important you contact your Travel Advisor or the Princess Reservations Department at 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) to correct this information. Also, verify that your passport details and emergency contact information are complete and correct.

Princess Future Cruise Packages and Princess Promotions

• What are Princess Future Cruise Packages? Princess Future Cruise Packages are the newest, most flexible way to bundle your next Princess cruise, even if you aren’t sure when or where you want to go! Each Princess Future Cruise Package includes a fixed amount of Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) to use when you are ready to book your future Princess Cruise, pre/post hotel certificates when you cruise, Onboard Credits (OBCs), 5- to 7-night land vacation certificates, and more.
• What are the Future Cruise Credits (FCC) included in the Princess Future Cruise Packages? The Future Cruise Credits you receive in your Princess Future Cruise Package allow you to purchase your Princess cruise(s) once you are ready to book. Each FCC is worth $1, can be used toward any future cruise booking with Princess, and may be applied to one cruise or multiple cruises.
• How do I redeem the Future Cruise Credits (FCC) I received with my Princess Future Cruise Package? Your FCC balance can be found in your  My Princess account  and may be redeemed directly on our website or by calling 1-800-PRINCESS. If you have a travel advisor or Cruise Vacation Planner, you can contact them directly to use your Future Cruise Credits.
• What is Princess Promotions? At Princess, we are always looking for ways to provide our guests with the best value while creating new and innovative cruise products, experiences, and programs. Princess Promotions is a new program that offers guests access to products that add value to your Princess vacation and complementary products like pre- and post-hotel stays, Onboard Credits, and more!
• How do I redeem my Princess Future Cruise Package Stays Certificates and Hotel Credits? Once you purchase a Princess Future Cruise Package, you can redeem your certificates and Hotel Credits by calling 1-800-PRINCESS and choosing option 5.
• Do my Future Cruise Credits (FCC) and Stay Certificates expire? FCCs and Stay Certificates purchased as part of a Princess Future Cruise Package must be booked within 18 months of the package purchase date. However, you can travel up to 24 months from when you purchased the package.
• What are Princess Future Cruise Packages Hotel Credits? Hotel Credits are the easiest way to save on all your hotel stays. Each Hotel Credit is equal to $1 and can be redeemed for significant savings on hotel rooms booked on our hotel booking engine or by calling 1-800-PRINCESS. Choose from thousands of hotels worldwide with exclusive savings available only through Princess.
• Can I cancel my Future Princess Promotions Package? You have seven (7) business days after the purchase of the package to cancel (Florida residents have thirty (30) business days to cancel the package). Cancellations can be made by calling 1-800-PRINCESS and choosing option 5.
• Princess Vacation Protection

Enjoy some peace of mind with Princess Vacation Protection, which provides both a cancellation fee waiver and travel insurance benefits as a simple way to ease your worries before setting sail.

Cancellation Policy

For guests that have Future Cruise Credits, visit our  Princess® Cruise Credits page  to learn about how to use them.

For the latest updates regarding cancelled cruises, view the  Impacted & Cancelled Cruises page  for more information.

Visa requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens are  listed on the guest's Travel Summary  under "Notices," if applicable. All other nationalities, including those with U.S. or Canadian resident status, are responsible for verifying visa requirements for each port visited during the cruise.

Visas may be obtained directly from the consulate of the countries visited. Some visas are available to be obtained on board. Passport holders of the United States, Canada, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom may obtain visas through  CIBTvisas . Australian and New Zealand passport holders, please use  http://visalink.com.au .

IMPORTANT: Visa and documentation requirements vary by destination and change from time to time without prior notice. Guests should check with the consulate of each country they will visit or a visa service to verify current regulations. It is the guest's responsibility to have proper travel documentation. They should reconfirm visa requirements with the consulate 14 to 30 days prior to the cruise.

The following information is provided as general guidance for U.S. and Canadian passport holders. Because governmental travel requirements change periodically, you must check with your Travel Advisor or the government authorities for all countries you will visit to determine or verify the actual requirements at the time of sailing. Princess assumes no responsibility for advising guests of such requirements.

Visa fees and requirements are subject to change without notice

Travel Document Requirements

Travel Document Requirements*

Nothing gets in the way of a good trip like paperwork issues. So we want to make sure you know you’re responsible for meeting all the documentation and proof-of-citizenship requirements for your travel. Check out the guidelines below, as the last thing we want is for you to be denied boarding.

In many cases, you’ll need a valid passport, but even if you don’t, we really recommend traveling with one. You never know when the unexpected might happen – like leaving your ship before the end of your cruise – and it’s always better to be prepared.

General guidelines

Make sure the name on your booking matches the name on your travel document exactly. If the names do not match, contact your Travel Advisor (for bookings through a travel agency) or the Princess Cruises Reservations Department (for direct bookings) at 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237). To avoid check-in delays or even denied boarding, please provide Princess Cruises with this information at least 45 days before your cruise.

For non-U.S. passport holders or non-U.S. permanent residents disembarking in a U.S. Port, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that before your cruise, you provide the address at which you will be staying in the U.S., post-cruise.

Travel document requirements vary by destination and citizenship. Below are document guidelines for both domestic and international voyages. Once a booking is made, you may view voyage-specific requirements on the Cruise Personalizer.

Document Requirements for U.S. and Canadian Citizens/Nationals

International itineraries

A valid passport book is required  for all international itineraries including:

• Australia & New Zealand
• Central and South America
• Panama Canal (partial and full transit)
• Caribbean (any sailings that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe)
• South Pacific & Tahiti
• World Cruises

If your cruise involves international air travel (including flights between the U.S. and Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda or Mexico) you will be required to present a valid passport when departing from or returning to the U.S. by air.

Domestic itineraries

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) governs acceptable travel documents for entry into the U.S. by sea from Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico or within the United States.  We highly recommend a passport. We also require a passport for all guests in a travel party when minors are traveling with only one adult (21 years and older). † However, for U.S. and Canadian citizens/nationals on select itineraries a passport is not always required. In lieu of a passport book, these individuals must present one of the following valid WHTI-compliant travel documents at cruise check-in:

• U.S. Passport Card
• U.S. or Canadian Issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) (A REAL ID is not the same and doesn’t fulfill this requirement.)
• U.S. or Canadian Issued Identification Card (issued to minors and non-drivers)
• NEXUS Card Air travel is limited to participating airports (for entry to Canada)
• SENTRI (for entry to Mexico) and FAST cards
• I-872 American Indian Card or Enhanced Tribal ID Card (ETC)

†We have implemented this requirement because we want to ensure that your party remains together should an emergency arise that requires one or more members to be disembarked in a non-U.S. port. We cannot guarantee that all members of your party will be allowed to disembark with just a WHTI-compliant document or birth certificate. Failure to present a valid passport for all guests traveling together will result in denial of boarding without refund of the cruise or cruisetour fare.

On select U.S. roundtrip (sometimes called “closed-loop”) voyages, U.S. citizens ages 16 and above may also travel with an  original or certified copy U.S. birth certificate (or U.S. Certificate of Naturalization if foreign born) presented together with a valid U.S. government-issued photo identification . U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 15 and younger may travel with a birth certificate.

• Alaska roundtrip from San Francisco, Los Angeles or Seattle (roundtrip Seattle cruisetours excluded)
• Canada/New England roundtrip from New York
• Caribbean roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale^, Galveston^ or New York (voyages that do  not  call to Martinque or Guadeloupe only)
• Hawaii roundtrip from Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or Seattle
• Mexico roundtrip from Los Angeles, San Francisco or San Diego

^Voyages that call to Central or South America are excluded and only passports are accepted. All voyages that call to Martinique or Guadeloupe require a passport.

For information regarding WHTI-compliant documents,  visit the US Customs and Border Protection website .

U.S. Permanent Residents are required to present one of the following at cruise check-in:

• 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

Canadian Permanent Residents are required to present a valid passport and Landed Permanent Resident Card at cruise check-in.

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

Passport validity

Many countries require passports be valid for six months after the completion of your travel. Check your passport to verify it will be valid for this period of time. Additionally, make certain that your passport contains blank pages for entry and exit endorsements and any visas that may be required. If necessary, allow sufficient time to renew your passport and/or obtain additional pages. (It may take longer than you think it will!) U.S. and Canadian passport holders sailing on a domestic cruise should ensure passports or other travel documents are valid through the completion of travel. There may be occasions where we retain your passport at check-in. This is to ensure that you are not inconvenienced by immigration clearance during your cruise and where face-to-face inspection is not required. We recommend you bring a second government-issued photo ID if you want to have one with you while in port.

There are over 7,000 Passport Application Acceptance locations in the U.S. You may locate the one closest to you by  going to the U.S. Department of State website . The United States Postal Service also provides passport services. Visit the U.S. Postal website to find a post office location, get a list of fees and download a  passport application .

For information regarding passport applications, please visit the U.S.  Department of State travel website  or call the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778 (M-F, 5 a.m.–5 p.m. PST).

*This information is provided as general guidance. Because governmental travel requirements change periodically, you must check with your Travel Advisor or the government authorities for all countries you will visit to determine or verify the actual requirements at the time of sailing. Princess assumes no responsibility for advising guests of such requirements.

Prohibited Items

Guests are advised not to bring any prohibited items to the ship. Prohibited items will not be allowed or stored on board the vessel with no exceptions. Guests are fully responsible for either storing these items ashore or disposing of them prior to embarkation.

The following items will not be allowed on board without a valid lawful reason:

• All firearms including non-firing weapons. An exception to this rule is law enforcement agents acting in an official capacity and certified armed security guards acting in an official capacity (with full permission of the ship’s Master).
• All forms of ammunition, explosive materials and propellants, projectiles of all kinds, cartridges.
• All imitation or replica weapons including de-commissioned weapons, those not capable of being fired and realistic imitation/toy weapons.
• Air/Pellet guns or any other variety of projectile firing weapon.
• Stun Guns, Tasers or any other electroshock device.
• All explosives and explosive device components including but not limited to military, civilian and safety devices, detonators, detonation cords, blasting caps, smoke cartridges, grenades, mines, imitation explosives/devices.
• Fireworks, Flares and Pyrotechnics
• Knives (with a blade over 6.35 cm (2 ½ inches), or 1.25 cm (½ inch) at widest point). bladed weapons, sharp pointed weapons, daggers, sabers, swords, axes, ice axes, hatchets, straight razors (shaving safety razors are allowed), razor blades not in a cartridge, box cutters, ice picks, meat cleavers, and utility knives, (unless specifically authorized for personnel who in the normal course of their duties on board the ship require to be in possession of a knife with a more substantial blade i.e. Galley Staff and Deck Ratings).
• Flick knives, gravity knives, switchblades or lock knives. Small locking pocket-knife with blade lengths less than 6.35 cm (2 ½ inches) and widths ½ inch or less are allowed.
• Concealed bladed weapons such as belt buckles knives, cane and umbrella knives/swords, pen knives and credit card knives.
• Recreational Diver’s Knives unless accompanied by other diving/snorkeling equipment and a valid diving ID card/license (must be held in the custody of the Security Officer). Dive knives may be checked out/in by the owner for dive excursions during the cruise whereby 24 hours’ notice is provided.
• Diver’s spears and spear guns/slings.
• Ceremonial knives/swords as well as entertainment props are at times permitted with prior notification from the Fleet Security Department (must be held on-board in the same manner as dive knives).
• Scissors with blades longer than 4 inches.
• Telescopic or regular truncheons/batons/clubs/coshes/nightsticks/billy clubs/blow pipes/ASPs and or any other item made, adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon.
• Archery equipment including crossbows and bolts.
• Martial Arts Equipment including flails, throwing stars, nunchakus/nunchucks, kubatons, bostaff, etc.
• Knuckle Dusters, brass knuckles, or any other item constructed for use as a weapon in hand-to-hand combat.
• Items containing Incapacitating Substances such as gas guns, tear gas sprays, pepper/mace cartridges, phosphorus, acid and other dangerous chemicals that could be used to maim or disable.
• Flammable Liquids and hazardous chemicals/substances including gasoline/petrol, cooking fuel, acid, spill able batteries (except those in wheelchairs), phosphorous, oil, lighter fluid (common lighters are permitted), methylated spirits, paint thinners, acid, turpentine, spray paint, chlorine, bleach, spray paint and any other dangerous chemicals that could burn, maim, incapacitate or disable.
• Compressed gas bottles/cylinders including propane tanks and aerosol cans (except for personal care or toiletries in limited quantities). Dive Tanks are not permitted, empty or full. Medical gas bottles are allowed in connection with a certified medical condition but cannot be packed in baggage. Oxygen cylinders must be delivered to Guest Services and stored in a designated safe area. Oxygen cylinders are not x-rayed.
• Drones also referred to as Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicle (RPA), and any other remote-controlled aerial devices/toys. (The exception is when permitted for company sponsored events when approved in advance by Fleet Security).
• Any other item made, adapted or intended for use as a weapon.
• Hookah and Water Hookah Pipes, candles and incense, strike-anywhere matches.
• Items brought on board the vessel and not supplied by the Company containing any kind of heating element, such as but not limited to: immersion heaters, heating blankets, flat irons, water heaters, coffee machines with heating / hot plates, etc.
• Alcohol in violation of the company alcohol policy.
• All illegal drugs, including medications without proper prescriptions.This includes legal intoxicant synthetic or “designer” drugs also known as “Legal Highs” such as Lysergamides, Opioids, Methoxetamine, Synthetic Cannabis, Betel Nuts or Kava (Cava).
• Medical Marijuana
• Noxious Items
• Baseball bats, hockey sticks, cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, pool cues, ski poles, and skateboards.
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), Ham radios, transformers, lasers, laser pointers.
• Bicycles, including electric bicycles
• Tools of trade/hobby including any type of hand or power tool. This includes hammers, drills, drill bits, crow bars, saws, power saws, chef/cooking knives/utensils, tools greater than 7 inches in length such as screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers (unless prior authorization is provided by Corporate Headquarters and strict controls are maintained on-board).
• Surfboards – (Boogie boards no longer than 42 inches in length are allowed).
• Boats/canoes/kayaks
• Coolers - only coolers approximately 12 x 12 x 12 in size (holds 6-12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages) are allowed. Guests carrying larger sizes will be directed to return them to their vehicle. If the guest is without a vehicle, the cooler will be destroyed in the same manner as other prohibited items. Exception: if the cooler is larger and contains baby food/formula, kosher food/special dietary food or medication - these must be hand-carried. Coolers cannot be accepted as checked baggage. Whenever there is doubt an embarkation supervisor or shipboard personnel can be contacted to make the decision.
• Scooters (only permitted if used for mobility), boats/canoes/kayaks, Segways (only permitted ashore if used for mobility limitations – cannot be used on board the ship), Heely Shoes, Hoverboards/self-balancing scooters.

The above list is not exhaustive. The Ship Security Officer and Staff Captain are authorized to make a professional judgment as to the legality of any item, declared, detected or discovered.

*Electrical devices such as small fans, multi plug box outlets/adaptors, power strips/extension cords without surge protectors and electric extension cords with surge protectors are allowed onboard when used with proper caution and following inspection/tests from the onboard electrical department. However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard then they will be removed and returned the last day of the cruise prior to debark.

As our guest, please follow the above precautions while traveling on any of our ships, and please refrain from taking these devices with you on board.

Cashless Cruising

One of the best things about cruising with Princess is the convenience of being able to charge all your onboard expenses to your stateroom.

You will receive your OceanMedallion before you board. Guests will either receive it in the mail or pick it up in the terminal during the check-in process. The Medallion allows you to make TrulyTouchless™ purchases on board and is linked to your personal shipboard account where all purchases are charged.

Guests who have a credit card on file for their shipboard account, an authorization hold of $100 is placed on the credit card to ensure validity of the account. While you are on board, your daily charges will be authorized at close of business each day with your card provider. These authorizations can remain on your card for up to 30 days. Due to this, on extended voyages (in excess of 30 days) your credit card on file will need to be settled at or before the 30-day mark as a result of this authorization timing limit. Following this mid-voyage settlement, a new authorization will be placed on your credit card on file and be settled again at the end of your voyage. 3rd party credit cards will not be accepted for charges on board since the cardholder needs to sign for the charges.

Card must be valid for the length of the cruise. This information will be kept confidential. Princess Cruises use a “pre-authorization” system to charge credit and debit cards for onboard spend. This is standard hotel practice and places a “hold” on your credit or debit card, although your bank does not actually release any money to us. At the end of your cruise, your onboard spend will be charged in one transaction, and the holds will then be released by your issuing bank. Please note, some banks hold pre-authorized funds for up to 30 days limiting the funds available in your debit or credit account. We strongly recommend you check your bank’s pre-authorization process if you have any concerns about this system. To avoid your bank or credit card company blocking onboard transactions, please alert them of your travel plans ahead of time.

An itemized statement will be emailed to you post cruise. By providing your credit card in advance, you are automatically registered for Express Check-Out. There is no need to visit the Guest Services Desk to settle your account. We accept all major credit cards in most currencies. Those paying by traveler's checks or cash will be required to leave a cash deposit with the Guest Services staff at the beginning of the cruise.

Onboard charges are in United States Dollars (USD) with the following exceptions: for guests on sailings operating roundtrip from Australia, all onboard charges are in Australian Dollars (AUD)

If you are using a credit card to pay for your onboard charges on an AUD currency sailing, a surcharge fee of 1.1% will be applied (regardless of cardholder nationality). Debit cards do not incur a surcharge.

Princess EZpay Cruise Payment Plan

The Princess EZpay Cruise Payment Plan allows you to spread out the cost of your cruise with monthly installments and budget your vacation the easy way – with no extra fees! It’s easy to enroll in and easy to use; Princess EZpay simply charges the credit card on file every month until final payment is due – you can set it and forget it.

Casino Charges

Charges for obtaining chips and tokens in the casino are limited to $5,000 USD per day, up to a total limit of $100,000 USD per person, per cruise and are only available if you have pre-registered a credit card with the Guest Service Desk for Express Check-Out.

Guests requiring extensions to daily or cruises limits should contact our Casino Department on 1-888-772-6697 prior to cruising for further details. Information and application forms for a casino credit line can be found at  Ocean Players Club website  under 'VIP Services'.

The minimum age for gambling on board is 18* years old.

*20 years old in Japan

Luggage Valet

Princess Luggage Valet delivers your bags from your home to your stateroom, and then back home again. The service is offered in partnership with Luggage Forward® in order to make your travel experience easier. No more hauling baggage through the airport, no more long check-in lines or waiting for your luggage to arrive at baggage claim, and no more risk of being held up in lengthy bag inspections at Customs. With Princess Luggage Valet you can enjoy the ultimate in ease and convenience when you travel. Make it a carefree escape with the new Princess Luggage Valet Service.

Luggage Valet includes:

• Worldwide service to and from more than 170 ports
• All-inclusive rates charged at the time of booking, no hidden fees
• Guaranteed to arrive on time or a refund of double what you paid to ship the bag

To book,  visit the Luggage Forward web site . Inquiries can be sent via email to  [email protected]  or you can call Luggage Forward directly at: 1-860-866-4172.

Please review our Passage Contract  for full details. You’ll need to accept the terms and conditions of the Passage Contract before your cruise.

Pre-/Post-Cruise Hotel Packages

Pre- or post-cruise packages offer hotels chosen for their excellent service and prime location, close to major attractions — and near to your embarkation port so you’ll be sure to board your ship on time.

You’ll be met by a Princess® representative who ensures all transfers and baggage handling are taken care of. You can also choose to stay on after your voyage to do some sightseeing. Either way, it’s a great option for extending your vacation with the peace of mind that Princess has handled all the details.

See your Travel Advisor,  contact Princess , or  visit Cruise Personalizer  for details.

Health & Accessibility

Accessible cruising.

Spend your time onboard focused on relaxing, experiencing all the benefits of MedallionClass® cruising and creating lasting memories with your family and friends. The following information and resources are available to help you plan for your Princess vacation.

Accessible Accommodations

Our ships offer accessible staterooms designed for wheelchair maneuverability and feature wider doorways than a standard stateroom in both the stateroom and the bathroom. Bathrooms are equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down bench seat, a distress alarm, handheld shower head and grab bars. The stateroom also has an easy access closet and writing desk with wheelchair access. Additionally, all staterooms feature Medallion touchless entry, which unlocks the door as you approach.

There are three types of accessible staterooms on our ships.

Fully Accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices and provide accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the cabin, and accessible bathrooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices and provide accessible elements including turning space, accessible routes throughout the stateroom, and accessible bathrooms.

Fully Accessible – Single Side Approach rooms are also designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. These rooms provide accessible bathrooms along with an accessible route and clear floor space on only one side of the bed in a stateroom configured to provide one bed and between the beds in a stateroom configured to provide two beds.

Ambulatory Accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with mobility disabilities who do not require the regular use of a wheelchair, scooter, or other similar assistive devices. These rooms provide some accessible features.

Details regarding accessible rooms on each ship can be found on each ship’s Deck Plan or by calling Princess for more information. Please send inquiries to the Access Office via email at [email protected]

We can help you with your accessible stateroom request by calling us at:

United States:  1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) Canada : 1-800-LOVEBOAT (1-800-568-3262) United Kingdom:  0344 3388 674 Australia:  13 24 88 New Zealand:  0800 780 717

Or contact your Travel Advisor.

Tip: Additional amenities can be requested for standard non-accessible staterooms including handheld shower heads, shower stools and raised toilet seats. For your convenience, these can be requested directly in the Princess® Cruises App under Preferences.

• Onboard Experience

Access-friendly design across our fleet makes it easy to enjoy each vessel's restaurants, theaters, spas, lounges, and open deck space. Elevators have 36- to 42-inch doorways, and wheelchair seating is available in show lounges and other public spaces. Onboard, make reservations and requests using the Princess® Cruises App  on your personal electronic device or interactive in-stateroom TV.

Visual Accommodations

We have a designated computer terminal equipped with JAWS Professional software equipped with a reader program available in the Internet Café. A headset is available upon request. For assistance, contact the Internet Café team once on board.

Braille/tactile signage is available on all ships. Large print, Braille, and electronic menus are available upon request with 60 days advance notice. If you prefer to have items read to you, please do not hesitate to ask a team member on board, who will gladly assist.

The ship’s activity schedule along with the ability to find points of interests, family and friends is available on interactive Portals located around the ship. A similar experience is available in the Princess App. For guests who did not bring their own device, a limited number of tablets with screen reading capabilities are available upon request from Guest Services on a first-come-first-served basis.

A text reader feature can be enabled on stateroom TV's to read aloud text that is displayed. This text reader is available to be enabled upon request to our Guest Services team.

Tip: View our  ship overview pages  for accessibility guides and deck plans.

Hearing Accommodations

With advance request to our Access team, we provide “all-in-one kits” with TTY that can be used in guest staterooms. When requested for an Alaska Cruisetour, TTY kits will also be provided for your stay at our Alaska Wilderness Lodges.

Televisions on board have closed captioning capabilities. Onboard theaters have assistive listening devices. Requests for interpreting services should be made at the time of booking through the Access team and are subject to the availability of qualified interpreters. If there are other guests onboard who also require the assistance of interpreters, they are shared. American Sign Language interpreting services may be requested in advance for guests traveling on itineraries that visit at least one port in the USA. Australian Sign Language interpreting services may be requested in advance for guests traveling on itineraries that visit at least one port in Australia.

Mobility Equipment Guidance

Here are some important things to know about bringing a mobility device onboard.

If you will be using a mobility device or have special needs, we strongly recommend you travel with a person physically fit to assist with your needs both onboard and ashore.

Although we do not offer mobility devices onboard for personal use, you are welcome to bring your own device. Alternatively, we do partner with the following companies who provide wheelchairs and other medical equipment for rent, and they can deliver directly to the ship. If a rental is a better solution for you, please do contact them directly.

• Special Needs at Sea: 800-513-4515 or 954-585-0575, or visit the  Special Needs at Sea website
• Scootaround: 888-441-7575 or 204-982-0657, or visit the  Scootaround website

Please ensure that your mobility device meets the following specifications:

• Maximum device width: 22” for standard staterooms, 31” for wheelchair-accessible staterooms
• Maximum combined weight of the wheelchair, including guest: 600 pounds (weight may vary outside the United States)

Your mobility device must be securely stored in your stateroom when not in use. This will ensure that hallways and other public areas are clear for other guests and crew to safely move throughout the ship. We do not offer alternate locations for mobility device storage onboard. For assistance onboard with charging your equipment in your stateroom, please contact your stateroom attendant.

If you are bringing other mobility equipment onboard or if you have booked Princess transfers, pre or post hotel stays, Cruisetours or shore excursions you must complete our  Mobility Questionnaire (PDF)  and return it to us at least 60 days prior to sailing.

Please be advised that filing out the Mobility Questionnaire is to ensure that our Access team can properly assist you with your accessibility and mobility needs. It is not an approval or confirmation of any request, nor does it guarantee being booked into or moved to an accessible cabin. Please ensure that you discuss your cabin needs with your Travel Advisor or our Reservations department.

Service Animals

Princess welcomes service animals that are trained to perform tasks including the support of vision, hearing or other specific needs as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Note that emotional support animals are not permitted on Princess ships.

Here are some important things to know about travelling with your service animal.

• Travel Documents. Entry regulations for service animals vary by port. The regulations concerning the entry of service animals to the ports you visit vary and there are some ports where animals may not be allowed ashore. You will need to check with each country visited and obtain the necessary documents to travel. These may include vaccination records, medical certificates and other travel documents.
• You will need to bring food, equipment and supplies.
• We will provide a relief area with material onboard. The types of litter material are limited and may vary by ship.

To begin your request, write to us at  [email protected] . Include your booking number, ship, sailing date with a brief description of the service animal, including the specific work or task the animal has been trained to provide.

Accessibility Ashore

Let’s chat about what you can expect as your plan your experiences ashore. There are varying levels of accessibility around the world. Some ports are more accessible than others, and accessible vehicles may be limited. We are here to help you navigate and deliver the best possible adventure ashore.

Getting to the ship: If you have purchased a Princess pre- or post-cruise hotel package or transfers, we will assist with arranging accessible transportation. Accessible transportation may be limited or not available in some foreign ports of call. Please be sure to submit a  Mobility Questionnaire (PDF)  so that we can make the appropriate arrangements for you.

Going ashore: Most ports provide easy access ashore via gangways. Due to various conditions including the steepness of the gangway, weather, shore-side facilities, tidal and sea conditions, guests using mobility devices may be required to transfer to a stair climber. Our team will guide you based on local conditions to assure your safety. For the safety of our team, crew members are only able to physically lift up to 50 pounds (22 kg).

In some ports, the ship anchors offshore and guests transfer to shore by water shuttles. When a water shuttle is required, guests using mobility devices will not be transferred into or out of the water shuttle, if lifting in excess of the above limitation is required. Many water shuttle ports do not provide wheelchair access so even if the guest can board the water shuttle, they may not be able to disembark ashore. Again, the shore-side facilities, movement of the water shuttle, weather and tidal conditions can also preclude the use of the water shuttle.

The final decision to allow any guest to board a water shuttle or disembark the ship will be made by the Captain on the basis of the safety and welfare of all involved.

Water Shuttle Ports:

• Airlie Beach, Australia
• Akaroa, New Zealand
• Alta, Norway
• Armacao dos Buzios, Brazil
• Bali (Benoa), Indonesia
• Bar Harbor, United States
• Bay of Islands, New Zealand
• Belize City, Belize
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Boracay, Philippines
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• Cannes, France
• Catalina Island, United States
• Champagne Bay, Vanuatu
• Conflict Islands, Papua New Guinea
• Cornwall (Falmouth), United Kingdom
• Crete (Aghios Nikolaos), Greece
• Dravuni Island, Fiji
• Dublin (Dun Laoghaire), Ireland
• Easter Island, Chile
• Edinburgh (South Queensferry), United Kingdom
• Elba (Portoferraio), Italy
• Exmouth, Australia
• Falkland Islands (Stanley), Falkland Islands
• Fuerte Amador, Panama
• Geiranger, Norway
• Geraldton, Australia
• Giardini Naxos, Italy
• Gizo Island, Solomon Islands
• Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
• Grundarfjordur, Iceland
• Guernsey (St. Peter Port), United Kingdom
• Gythion (for Sparta), Greece
• Hellesylt, Norway
• Helsingborg, Sweden
• Huahine, French Polynesia
• Ilhabela, Brazil
• Isafjordur, Iceland
• Ishigaki, Japan
• Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
• Juneau, United States
• Kaikoura, New Zealand
• Kangaroo Island, Australia
• Ketchikan, United States
• Kiriwina Island, Papua New Guinea
• Kitava, Papua New Guinea
• Ko Samui, Thailand
• Komodo Island, Indonesia
• Kona, United States
• Korsakov, Russian Federation
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Kumano, Japan
• Lifou, New Caledonia
• Lofoten Islands (Gravdal), Norway
• Lombok, Indonesia
• Loreto, Mexico
• Maldives (Male), Maldives
• Mare, New Caledonia
• Margaret River (Busselton), Australia
• Maui (Lahaina), United States
• Mayotte, France
• Mayreau (Saline Bay), St. Vincent / Grenadines
• Miyakojima, Japan
• Monte Carlo, Monaco
• Monterey, United States
• Moorea, French Polynesia
• Mystery Island, Vanuatu
• Nanortalik, Greenland
• Newport, United States
• Nha Trang, Vietnam
• Nosy Be, Madagascar
• Olden, Norway
• Phillip Island, Australia
• Phuket, Thailand
• Port Arthur, Australia
• Port Douglas, Australia
• Portofino, Italy
• Princess Cays, Bahamas
• Puerto Chacabuco, Chile
• Puerto Montt, Chile
• Puerto Quepos, Costa Rica
• Punta Arenas, Chile
• Qaqortoq, Greenland
• Rangiroa, French Polynesia
• Red Bay, Canada
• Saint Helena, United Kingdom
• San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
• Santa Barbara, United States
• Santorini, Greece
• Sardinia (Alghero), Italy
• Savusavu, Fiji
• Seychelles Islands (Praslin), Seychelles
• Seydisfjordur, Iceland
• Shetland Islands (Lerwick), United Kingdom
• Sibenik, Croatia
• Sihanoukville, Cambodia
• Sitka, United States
• Sorrento, Italy
• St. Barthelemy, French Overseas Territories
• St. Johns, U.S. Virgin Islands
• Stewart Island, New Zealand
• Toba, Japan
• Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
• Wewak, Papua New Guinea
• Willis Island, Australia
• Yorkeys Knob (Cairns), Australia
• Zanzibar, Tanzania

Shore Excursions: As your destination experts, we offer a variety of experiences ashore. We recommend you review our shore excursion offerings and make your selections. Each excursion is noted with the level of mobility. Accessible shore excursions may not be available in some international ports, and not all port facilities are designed with accessible features. Do contact us in advance with any questions or for assistance with your accessible shore excursions. A completed Mobility Questionnaire will help guide us with these arrangements. Once onboard, our shore excursion team is available to assist with your adventures ashore.

For general questions about your cruise vacation, visit our  Contact Us page .

Send  Mobility Questionnaire (PDF) , requests for Sign Language Interpreters, Accessible Transfers and Shore Excursions to our Access Office. Email:  [email protected]

Prescription Medication

In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, please remember to bring additional prescription medication for at least 2 weeks beyond the length of the cruise. Also bring a list of the names, strengths and dosages of all medications in case refills are required.

Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting diarrhea. You can get norovirus from having direct contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or water, or touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth. There are several measures which have been placed to prevent and contain illnesses on our ships that meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The simplest way for you to stay healthy is to frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet. You’ll also find hand sanitizers located throughout the ship for your use after washing your hands. If you feel ill during your voyage, please immediately the ship’s medical team.  For more information on Norovirus,  visit the CDC’s website .

Vaccinations

Vaccinations*

Information regarding required vaccinations for your cruise or cruisetour is listed on your Travel Summary (if applicable).

We recommend seasonal influenza vaccinations for all guests. Furthermore, you are strongly urged to seek advice from your healthcare provider or an approved public health advisory service to identify any specific vaccination or health precautions required for each port of call. For example, you may wish to reference the  World Health Organization (WHO)  or the  United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) . Some countries strictly enforce certain health requirements, in which case you may be required to present a completed and original vaccination certificate. Failure to present appropriate vaccination documentation at embarkation will result in guests being denied boarding.

IMPORTANT: Vaccination requirements vary by destination and do change from time to time. Guests should check with their Travel Advisor or contact the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to verify current regulations. 

COVID-19 vaccination may be required for your cruise during, and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Please refer to the latest local public health authority guidelines.

*This information is provided as general guidance. Because governmental and medical vaccination requirements and recommendations change periodically you must check with your Travel Advisor, government authorities for the countries you will visit and/or medical professionals to determine or verify the actual requirements and recommendations at the time of sailing. Princess assumes no liability for the guest's failure to do so.

Guests undergoing dialysis should be aware that our ships’ medical facilities are similar to those of an urgent care center. While we do have trained medical professionals on board, they are not equipped to provide specialized care for dialysis patients. Should an emergency situation arise during your cruise, it is recommended that you be prepared to provide a complete list of medical conditions, medications, and allergies to the medical center.

Although we strongly recommend against undertaking the risks involved, Princess Cruises will allow a guest requiring peritoneal or hemodialysis to travel on our ships  at the guest’s own risk . It is recommended that a guest requiring dialysis consults with his or her nephrologist prior to making travel arrangements.  You should be stable on your dialysis treatments for a period of at least 12 months prior to sailing.

• Among the many recognized risks to dialysis patients are:
• Pericarditis
• Cardiac tamponade
• Congestive heart failure

Recognized risks associated with hemodialysis used in the treatment of kidney failure include but are not limited to:

• Low Blood Pressure
• Clotting of the vascular access
• Muscle cramps

Before booking a cruise, the treating nephrologist should consider carefully the following:

• There is no nephrologist available on any of the Princess cruise ships for dialysis patients.
• Ships are not equipped with back-up battery support for dialysis related equipment.
• A guest may be at sea for several days without any immediate hospital and/or specialist back up, and if the itinerary is not within the U.S., the availability of specialized shore side facilities can be extremely limited.

The risks to the guest who misses an appointed treatment are very serious, with little recourse available while at sea. The guest assumes these risks when a ship is prevented from entering a planned port of call for any reason.

Guests are expected to make all arrangements regarding dialysis, whether self-administered on board or at a shoreside facility. Environmental Officers can assure that dialysis waste disposal policies are followed, including providing the stateroom with a closed lid waste receptacle lined with a bio-hazardous bag for care of bags or pouches of bio-hazardous waste.

Finally, you should be aware that there are charges associated with being treated in the medical facility during your cruise, and that ordinary trip travel interruption insurance does not generally cover such treatment costs if you require medical consultation or treatment. An itemized bill will be provided which can be submitted to the guest’s health insurance company after the required treatment is charged to the onboard account.

If you will require oxygen supplementation during your sailing, please contact our Health Services Team by emailing  [email protected] . You will be asked to send a letter or prescription from your doctor. You will also be required to let us know the type of equipment you will be using and whether you will be bringing your own supplies or if you will be having the equipment delivered to the ship. 

Pregnant women are not allowed to sail if they are entering the 24th week of their pregnancy by the last day of the cruise. 

All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel and the pregnancy is not high risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD) calculated from both Last Menstrual Period (LMP) and ultrasound (if performed). 

Please ensure you have your doctor’s letter with you when you embark.

Restrictions or precautions may apply to pregnant guests, during the COVID-19 Pandemic – please review the COVID-19 section.

Sharps Disposal

If you will be using sharps of any kind, including needles, lancets, or blades, for your safety and the safety of others  you must utilize a sharps container . To dispose of sharps while on board, request a sharps container from your stateroom steward.

Before You Leave for Your Cruise

Complete the pre-boarding OceanReady® steps and access Cruise Personalizer to book shore excursions, onboard reservations such as Lotus Spa and much more!

OceanReady® QR code and Luggage Tags

If you’ve completed the required  OceanReady® steps  and have your Medallion® device, you can expect a streamlined embarkation.

If you have not received your Medallion wearable ahead of time, you will be asked to show your OceanReady QR code to terminal personnel during the health screening process and once again at check-in. This code can be accessed through the Princess® Cruises App on your smart device. To streamline the check-in process, we ask that you print your OceanReady QR code. Your OceanReady QR code only becomes available once you complete your health questionnaire and accept passage contract and acceptances.

Please remember to have your Medallion device, mobile device with the Princess® Cruises App downloaded, and your luggage tags when you get to the terminal.

Printing your luggage tags is fast and easy! Beginning 75 days prior to sailing, you can print your luggage tags once the booking is paid in full and we’ve been provided with all your guest immigration information and credit card registration.

Simply log-in to Cruise Personalizer®  to access and print this information!

Age Requirements/Traveling with Children

Age requirements Guests under the age of 21 years must travel in a stateroom with a guest 21 years or older who shall assume responsibility for their care during the cruise. For family groups booking multiple staterooms, the minimum age for each stateroom is 16 years of age, provided they are traveling with a parent or legal guardian. We are unable to accept group reservations for student or youth groups that do not conform to our minimum age requirements. Each guest agrees and warrants that he/she will supervise any guest in his/her care at all times to ensure all policies, along with all other rules of the Carrier and ship, are strictly adhered to by all guests under their supervision.

Passport requirement when minors travel with one adult on voyages governed by the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (includes travel within Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Mexico & United States)

When minors (any guest under the age of 18) are traveling with only one adult 21 years of age or older, Princess requires that all guests possess a valid passport. Carrier has implemented this requirement so that your party remains together should an emergency arise that requires one or more in your party to disembark in a non-U.S. port. Carrier cannot guarantee that all members of your party are allowed to disembark with just a WHTI-compliant document or birth certificate. Failure to present a valid passport for all guests traveling together results in denial of boarding without refund of the of the cruise or cruisetour fare.

Minimum Age Requirements: Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation in order to sail. Children must be at least 12 months of age at the time of embarkation to sail on trans-ocean crossings and remote itineraries, where there are more than 2 consecutive sea days.

Cruisetours:  The minimum age for escorted cruisetours is 5 years.

Car seats US and Canadian regulations require that children up to the age of 8 years old may be required to travel in a car seat, booster seat or other child restraint system. When being transported by car, taxi, limo, van or shuttle, it is your responsibility to know the regulations and provide the applicable child restraint system.

Infants/Young Children and Swimming Pools Parents/guardians are reminded to bring their children dressed in appropriate attire with towel and sunscreen. Youth staff will not conduct children's activities in the adult or splash pools. Parents must supervise their children at all times when using the pools. Infants and young children in diapers and/or swim diapers, and children who are not toilet trained are NOT permitted in any of the pools or spas due to public health concerns.

Our policy is strictly observed on board and is intended for the public health safety of all guests.

Documents for guests under the age of 18 Several countries require special documentation for children traveling with only one parent or with neither parent; these requirements are subject to change without notice. Many foreign countries require any single parent or guardian to bring a permission slip for the minor to travel abroad. It is your responsibility to ensure that you possess the proper documents for all of the countries that you will visit. Please verify requirements with the consulates of the countries visited prior to your cruise.

For guests under 21 years of age or those who are traveling with children, please note:

• Entry into the disco after 10 p.m. is limited to guests 18 years and over. Be sure to check with the Youth and Teen Centers for special dance parties designed for kids and teens.
• Children who are toilet-trained and accompanied by a parent or guardian are permitted in the sauna and hot tub(s) unless otherwise specified.
• Guests under the age of 13 are allowed in the evening entertainment show lounges if they are with their parent or guardian.
• In line with domestic U.S. age limits, as well as our company policy, the casino, cash prize bingo and horse racing are reserved for guests 18 years and older. Picture identification may be requested.
• Guests under the age of 18 are prohibited from purchasing cigarettes or tobacco products while on board.

Youth programs Princess offers our Camp Discovery Youth Program, where your little ones will have engaging, supervised activities designed specifically for them. The Treehouse (for ages 3-7) and The Lodge (for ages 8-12) give kids the chance to enjoy everything from arts and crafts, game tables, movies, and more.

Children are welcome on all Princess ships, facilities vary.

Don’t miss the orientation and registration meeting on the first night of your cruise. You and your children can meet the Youth and Teen staff and learn more about our exciting shipboard programs. Parents are always welcome to join their children in the Youth and Teen Centers.

ADDITIONAL REMINDERS Children under 3 are not permitted in the Youth Center unless accompanied by a parent at all times. Youth counselors cannot administer medication, bottle-feed, change diapers, or provide meal service. Private in-cabin babysitting is not available on any Princess ship. All children participating in the Youth Program must be potty-trained. Children who are not potty-trained are not permitted in hot tub or pool facilities.

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Princess welcomes all children and teens ages 3-17 to participate in our programs. Let our counselors know of all medical and/or special needs for your children. We will make every effort to accommodate them. Please be advised that Princess Youth counselors do not offer individual one-on-one supervision.

JUST FOR TEENS And for cruisers age 13-17, we have The Beach House, a contemporary surf-themed lounge just for teens. The Beach House offers teens a range of activities including teen only dance parties, sports tournaments and talent shows. Or, have fun meeting other teens with the Dating Game. Those seeking a creative retreat will enjoy hip-hop dance classes, T-shirt painting, casino nights, mocktails, pizza parties or special teen-only dinners.

During voyages with a high number of families on board, we will make all efforts to accommodate interested parties. However, participation in our program cannot be guaranteed. Hours of operation may change to better serve our guests.

Pre-pay your Crew Appreciation

For your convenience, if your fare did not include pre-paid crew appreciation, we're pleased to offer you the ability to pre-pay the crew appreciation that is included in your folio on board at the end of your cruise. You can also utilize this service as a gift for someone else who may be cruising.

To simplify the tipping process for our guests, a discretionary crew appreciation of $16.50 per guest for suites, $15.50 per guest for mini-suites and $14.50 per guest (including children) in all other staterooms, per day, is automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. The crew appreciation is a daily (adjustable) amount added to your onboard account and pooled in order to recognize the many crew members in the Bar, Dining, Entertainment, Housekeeping, Guest Services, Galley and Onboard Revenue areas and entertainment areas throughout our fleet who contribute to the guest experience. 

To take advantage of this service,  login to Cruise Personalizer to pre-pay online , or simply call 0344 338 8663 and reference Special Service Item #0591. Pre-payment is available up to 2 days prior to departure.

Pre-pay Beverage Packages

Pre-paying beverage packages offer a great way to save time at embarkation, if one was not included in your fare. From a bottle of wine to beer specials to our Plus Beverage Package* option that features cocktails, fountain sodas and bottled water, there's a beverage package to quench every thirst.

To take advantage of pre-payment,  login to Cruise Personalizer to pre-pay online , or simply call 1-855-500-7690. Pre-payment is available up to 3 days prior to departure.

*Please note:  Beverage Packages  are calculated based on the total number of days of your cruise. Plus Beverage Package does not include bottles of wine; however, wine is available at a 25% discount from the menu price when purchased from bar or dining room locations by guests with a Plus Beverage Package.

Package is NOT available for purchase within 3 days of sailing and is NOT available for voyages 2 nights or fewer. Package must be purchased for full length of voyage, cannot be shared, is non-transferable, and is non-refundable within 3 days of sailing. Alcoholic drinks are limited to 15 beverages per 24 hour period (non-alcoholic beverages do not have this limitation).

Pre-reserving Lotus Spa Appointments

The Lotus Spa offers a tranquil environment where you can renew your mind and body with restorative spa therapies from around the world.

To help you unwind, the Lotus Spa offers a full range of personalized spa treatments, including hair and beauty services, massage, sensuous wraps, aroma therapies and even teeth whitening.

Spa advance reservations are accepted between 120 to 7 days prior to departure. Guests must be 18 years or older to indulge in any body treatments and at least 16 years of age to utilize the fitness facilities. Other Spa services are available  to guests 13 years and older when accompanied by an adult.

Booking Shore Excursions

Book a shore excursion with Princess® to make the most of your time ashore in your destination. Princess offers a variety of experiences perfect for those visiting a port for the first time, experienced cruisers, families, and more. We offer excursions focused on sightseeing, culture & history activities & adventure, and nature & wildlife – many endorsed by our partners, Discovery and Animal Planet. You can book your shore excursion online with Cruise Personalizer® when you book your cruise and up to 5 days before you depart. Please note, unless otherwise specified, shore excursions are advertised and booked in US Dollars.  Learn more about our ports and excursions .

Guests with disabilities should  email the Access Office  for assistance with accessible shore excursions. The Access Office works in partnership with our Shore Excursion department who will assist and advise you directly of your options. Please be advised that accessible shore excursions may not be available in some international ports.

Ship Deck Plans

We make it easy for you to get to know your ship, so that you can start your vacation on the right foot. With interactive deck plans and virtual tours, you’ll be able to see your ship before you board.

Port Driving Directions

Visit our  Cruise Ports & Hotels page  for general port information (including driving directions to the port) and hotel packages.

• Travel & Transportation

Before you board, make your vacation as seamless as possible with some helpful details on booking flights, transfers and port driving directions.

If you purchase a Princess airport-to-ship transfer, you’ll be met by a uniformed Princess representative at the embarkation port airport.

For domestic U.S. flights, you’ll be met near the luggage claim area. For international flights, you’ll be met as you exit the secure customs area. Make sure you claim all your luggage prior to exiting the luggage claim area.

From the airport, you’ll be transferred to your ship or hotel. But if you haven’t purchased your air travel arrangements from Princess, you must provide us with flight details prior to purchasing your transfer.

And if you require special assistance, be aware that lift-equipped transportation may not be available in your port of embarkation or disembarkation. Arrangements must be secured in advance to accommodate your needs.

For transfer arrangement details, please contact your travel agent, call 1-800-PRINCESS or  visit Cruise Personalizer® .

Travel Tips

For the latest information regarding what to bring, what to leave at home, and what to generally expect while traveling, please  visit the Transportation Security Administration website .

For current travel warnings issued by the State Department for countries Americans should avoid, please  visit the U.S. Department of State website .

For general travel information issued by the State Department, please  visit the U.S. Department of State website .

Book Air Travel

We are pleased to offer Princess EZair℠ program, featuring low prices with flexible fares that can be changed up to 45 days prior to departure with no fee. † Princess EZair offers real-time, competitively-priced flights that are customized to when and where you sail. It also offers Late Arrival Protection – something not offered by other major air booking websites.

Benefits include:

• Flights That Fit Your Cruise – Get personalized suggestions based on when and where you sail.
• Low Fares on Flights – Access fares lower than most public prices. We pass the exclusive savings we enjoy because of the high volume of flights we sell on to you. See for yourself!
• Flexibility to Change Flights – Cancel flexible airfare up to 45 days prior to departure with no fees. Plus, book flights now with no amount due until cruise final payment.
• Same Day Late Arrival Protection – Rest easy that you'll make your cruise if flights are delayed or canceled on the day of travel and get home if you miss flights because of your cruise or transfer.
• Getting flight quotes is simple – Visit princess.com (1. Find a Cruise 2. Select "View Details" 3. Select "Flight Quotes"), contact us or ask your Travel Advisor about Princess EZair.

If you have not booked a cruise yet,  search for cruises and airfare.

†No charge penalty until 45 days prior to departure for Flexible fares only. Restricted fares are non-refundable and must be paid in full at the time of booking.

Seat assignments are not guaranteed and are subject to change without notice due to schedule changes, equipment changes or other unforeseen circumstances. Princess has no control over seat assignments, and any changes are at the discretion of the airline. We recommend that guests contact the airline(s) directly, once you receive your air notification, to request specific seats.

Flight Guidelines for Non Princess Flight Guests

Princess Cruises has established the following air flight guidelines for guests who choose to purchase air from a source other than Princess. Please select the port(s) of embarkation and/or disembarkation from the list below to view the air flight guidelines.

The times listed below are subject to change. 

• Adelaide, Australia
• Anchorage (Whittier), United States
• Athens (Piraeus), Greece
• Auckland, New Zealand
• Barcelona, Spain
• Boston, United States
• Brisbane, Australia
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), United States
• Galveston, United States
• Hobart, Australia
• Honolulu, United States
• Dover, United Kingdom
• Southampton, United Kingdom
• Los Angeles, United States
• Melbourne, Australia
• New York, United States
• Orlando (Port Canaveral), United States
• Perth (Fremantle), Australia
• Quebec, Canada
• Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
• San Francisco, United States
• Santiago (San Antonio), Chile
• Seattle, United States
• Singapore, Singapore
• Sydney, Australia
• Vancouver, Canada
• Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Flight or Weather Delays Contact Numbers

If you encounter unforeseen flight or weather-related delays, you’ll need to advise accordingly:

• If you have booked EZair, please contact the Princess En Route Desk for assistance with rebooking options.
• If you have made independent flight arrangements and have not booked Princess Vacation Protection, please contact the Princess En Route Desk so they can inform the ship of your delays.

Princess En Route Desk Contact Info:

• Within the U.S. or Canada, please call 1-800-545-0008.
• Outside of the U.S. or Canada, please call 1-661-284-4410.
• Within Australia, please call 13 24 88.

If you have booked Princess Vacation Protection and have made independent flight arrangements (have not booked EZair) call the travel assistance provider under the plan:

• Within the U.S. or Canada: 1-877-303-5909.
• Outside of the U.S. or Canada, call collect: 1-516-342-4594.
• What To Pack for a Cruise

Items you may need to pack to make your time with Princess the best vacation ever!

Clothing Recommendations

You should dress for a cruise with Princess the same way you would for any stylish land-based resort.

Casual sportswear, including shorts, lightweight pants, sundresses, will keep you feeling fresh and looking your best while at sea and ashore in hotter climates.

We recommend you bring a sweater, a jacket or an all-weather coat for cool evenings, and for shore excursions, depending on your destination. Due to unpredictable weather, don't forget a hat or visor and a collapsible umbrella. Please be sure to bring proper clothing for visits to religious sites. You'll also want low-heeled, rubbersoled shoes for strolling on deck, as well as comfortable walking shoes or sandals to wear.

Princess makes it easy to know what to pack and what to wear when you’re dining on board our spectacular ships. There are two designations for dress codes: Smart Casual and Formal.

Smart Casual Guest attire should be in keeping with what they would wear to a nice restaurant at home.

• Skirts/dresses, slacks, blouses, and sweaters for women
• Pants and collared or dress shirts for men

Pool or beach attire, shorts, ball caps or jeans with fraying and/or holes are not welcomed in the dining room. Shoes must be worn.

Formal When formal nights are held, please observe the dress code in the dining venues for the enjoyment of all our guests.

• Evening gown, cocktail dress or elegant pant suit for women
• Tuxedo, dark suit or dinner jacket and slacks for men

Packing for Your Cruise

Follow these important luggage reminders:

• Essential medicines, travel documents, valuables and breakables should be hand carried in your possession at all times.
• Many domestic airline carriers now impose excess baggage fees for one or more bags and bags weighing over 50 lbs., so check with your carrier regarding weight restrictions.
• Princess will make every effort to assist you in safeguarding your belongings. But remember, you are responsible for your things at all times. Princess is not responsible for money, jewelry, cameras, binoculars, documents or any other articles you retain in your personal control.
• All luggage should have a sturdy personal identification tag that will not be lost or damaged in the course of typical airport and trucked luggage handling.
• On journeys including air travel, luggage will be subject to a considerable amount of handling and we would recommend that your luggage be of sturdy construction.
• Princess recommends that your travel protection is adequate enough to cover any possible loss or damage which may occur. Any loss or damage caused by Princess or an airline must be reported immediately to the responsible party.

Alcohol Policy

As provided in the Passage Contract, on the day of embarkation, guests are permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne on board per voyage, which will not be subject to a corkage fee if consumed in your stateroom. Additional wine or champagne bottles are welcome, but will incur a US$20/AU$30 (depending on shipboard currency) corkage fee each, irrespective of where they are intended to be consumed. Liquor, spirits, or beers are not permitted. Please remember that luggage will be scanned and alcohol outside of our policy will be removed and discarded.*

Alcoholic beverages that are purchased duty free from The Shops of Princess, or at ports of call, will be collected for safekeeping and delivered to the guest's stateroom on the last day of the cruise. A member of the ship's staff will be at the gangway to assist guests with the storage of their shoreside alcoholic purchases while The Shops of Princess staff will assist guests with shipboard alcoholic purchases.

*Princess is not responsible for any alcoholic beverages removed and discarded by shoreside security staff. Such items are not eligible for monetary refund or replacement. Guests found with prohibited items, including alcohol outside of the policy, may need to collect their luggage at a security checkpoint on board.

We strongly recommend you hand-carry all valuables and breakables, including jewelry, electronics and cameras as well as any medications.  Please read the Passage Contract  for limitations and responsibilities for lost items and baggage.

• Shore Excursions

Exploring destinations around the world is one of the highlights of your vacation, and the best way to do this is on a Princess Cruises Shore Excursion.

Safety Ashore

Our primary concern at Princess is your health, safety and security. We are in continuous contact with authorities concerning any travel advisories that might impact our cruises.

If the U.S. State Department advises against travel to specific locations we visit, we would make the necessary changes to the published itinerary. Although such itinerary changes occur infrequently, please understand that these changes are for your own safety and security and are beyond our control.

We remind all of our guests that they must ultimately assume responsibility for their actions while ashore. In this regard, we would like to remind you of some common sense precautions when visiting ports-of-call:

• Stay in the normal tourist areas and don’t travel to out-of-the-way places without the benefit of a guided tour.
• Do not leave any of your belongings unattended in public areas.
• Be generally aware of people and activities around you.
• Do not accept packages from anyone you don’t know personally.
• Keep a low profile–dress and behave conservatively.
• Be careful when eating and drinking ashore.

We will always adhere to local guidelines and protocols regarding the health and safety of our guests and crew.

We thank you in advance for following these recommendations, which we believe will enhance the enjoyment of your cruise.

Excursion Cancellation

Cancellation of Pre-Paid Shore Excursions:

If you have pre-paid a shore excursion and wish to cancel, the following shall also apply:

If a pre-paid shore excursion is cancelled five  (5) days or more  prior to sailing a refund of the pre-paid amount will be made in one of the following ways:

If there is a shore excursion balance for the guest named on the reservation being cancelled then the pre-paid amount shall be applied to this balance.

• If there is no shore excursion balance for the guest named on the reservation being cancelled then the pre-paid amount will be refunded to the credit card used to pre-pay the shore excursion. All refunds will be processed in due course, but delays should be anticipated. Please allow sufficient time for us to manage this process and know we are doing everything in our power to expedite where possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

If a pre-paid shore excursion is not cancelled within the above time frame or is cancelled during the voyage prior to the "Closing Time for Cancellation" listed for the particular excursion you wish to cancel, then the pre-paid amount will be refunded to the guest named on the pre-paid reservation as a shipboard credit on this guest's shipboard folio. Please note this is done regardless of which guest pre-paid for the shore excursion.

Cancellation of Pre-Reserved Shore Excursions

Due to the nature of excursions involving hotel accommodations, flights and private vehicles, these excursions are not refundable after the closing date, which is 30 days prior to sailing.

Due to the limited capacity and high demand for helicopter flights, any excursion involving a helicopter flight is not refundable unless cancelled no later than 12:00pm on the day after embarkation.

For other excursions in each port of call, a "Closing Time for Cancellations" is listed on the Shore Excursion Order Form found in your stateroom. This is the time when the bookings for the excursions in that port close and we notify the local operators of the final excursion requirements. You may cancel an excursion if it is prior to the closing time whether you reserve an excursion in advance of the cruise or book on board. However, we cannot cancel an excursion if it is past this closing time, nor will we refund an excursion on which you have reserved but do not to attend.

Cancellation of Alaska Land Excursions

Alaska Land Excursions, purchased through the Cruise Personalizer, may be cancelled up to three days prior to travel without any cancellation fees.  Land Excursions cancelled prior to the cancellation deadline will be refunded to the credit card that you provided in the Cruise Personalizer to purchase your tours.  Excursions cancelled within three (3) days prior travel are subject to a 100% cancellation fee, unless the operator, at their sole discretion, is unable to operate the program due to unforeseen circumstances.  All sales of tours booked while on your land tour are considered final at the time of purchase and are 100% non-refundable except in the case of an operator approved cancellation.

Multiple Excursions in One Port

If you choose to book more than one excursion in a single day, please allow at least 60 minutes between each excursion. All excursions depart from, and return to, the cruise ship pier. By scheduling in this manner, you will have sufficient time to take multiple excursions.

Tipping on Excursions

Tipping is a discretionary matter. It is, however, customary around the world, if one is pleased with their excursion, to tip the guide.

Here are suggested ranges (in U.S. dollars) to assist you in determining what amount is appropriate:

Please extend any tips on an individual basis, not as a group.

Excursion Timing

One very important feature of taking an excursion organized by Princess is that we closely monitor the departures and returns of all excursions. Therefore, our ships do not sail until all of our organized excursion transportation has returned, so you can be assured that you won't miss the ship. Please keep in mind that when you make your own arrangements in port, or if you leave an organized excursion, we will no longer be aware of your whereabouts; so be sure to schedule yourself with ample time to return to the ship before it sails.

Excursion Companies

All excursions are operated by local, independent companies and not by Princess. We selected only the most reputable companies available to provide your excursions. The companies providing your excursions are selected by Princess based on their excellent reputation for service and safety.

Children’s Excursion Pricing

Select excursions offer child pricing. Our reservation system will automatically apply a child rate if one is available on eligible tours when you make your reservation. Once on board, check your excursion tickets to ensure you have received the correct number of child tickets. If you have received the incorrect number of child tickets, visit the Shore Excursion Desk as soon as possible to make any necessary adjustments. Child prices are not available for excursions involving flights or hotel stays. Toddlers aged 2 and younger sitting on a parent's lap (not occupying a seat), are not charged for most excursions. If a parent would like their infant to occupy a seat or would like to utilize a safety seat, the parent must purchase an excursion ticket for the infant at the published excursion price. Parents are also responsible for bringing a safety seat for their child.

Excursion Age Restrictions

For most excursions, there is no minimum age for children as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Guests under the age of 18 years cannot participate without a parent or guardian. A few operators may allow an unaccompanied minor on an excursion if a waiver is signed by the parent or guardian in the operator’s presence.

Guided Excursions

All excursions include local English-speaking guides except for "On Your Own" excursions and where otherwise noted.

Where possible, time for shopping has been allowed within the framework of some excursions. However, excursions are not primarily designed for shopping, and time allowed for this purpose may be limited.

You May Also Like

• Before You Leave for Your Cruise
• Cruising with Family & Kids
• Dining & Nightlife
• Keeping in Touch
• Disembarkation
• Report a Lost Item or Luggage
• Onboard Stateroom Account
• Alaska Cruisetours
• Asia Cruisetours
• Australia Cruisetours
• Canada & New England Cruisetours
• Europe Cruisetours
• South America Cruisetours

Common questions and topics

Princess MedallionClass® FAQ

Crew Appreciation

Dress Code and What to Pack for a Cruise

Future Cruise Credits (FCC)

Travel Documents

You may also like

• Princess EZair®
• Cruise Tips, Advice and Information
• Military Cruise Benefit Program
• Princess® Rewards Visa® Card
• Onboard Gifts & Services

• Work with Us
• Destinations

U.S. Passport Book vs Passport Card – Which One Should You Get?

If you’re wondering, “Which should I get, a U.S. Passport Card or a Passport Book?”, you’re not the only one with that same question. On the surface, a Passport Card might seem like the easy and cheap option.

You’ll learn the differences between a Passport Card and a Passport Book and what you should know before purchase.

There are subtle distinctions that can be confusing when trying to decide between a Passport Card and a Passport Book. Here are suggestions on whether to buy a passport book or card for your next cruise or air travel vacation.

It’s really important to know the limitations of a Passport Card so you d on’t get caught unprepared if an emergency happens or your itinerary undergoes an unexpected detour or delay.

Differences Between a U.S. Passport Card vs. Passport Book

In This Post...

While both the Passport Card and Passport Book are proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship, they have very different rules and regulations. Here’s a general way to note the difference between the two forms of government-issued identification. 

A Passport Card was primarily designed for northern and southern U.S. land and sea border crossings. A Passport Book is what you need for international air travel and to re-enter the United States. But the devil is in the details. 

What is a U.S. Passport Card?

The size of a credit card, a U.S. Passport Card is convenient to carry, costs less than a traditional U.S. Passport Book and does some of the same things that a Passport Book allows you to do. However, a U.S. Passport Card has certain limitations that affect your ability for foreign travel. 

While the Passport Card is cheaper to buy than a Passport Book, the card can only be used for re-entry into the U.S. from four countries. These countries are Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. 

READ NEXT:  Do You Need a U.S. Passport for the Bahamas?

Think of a Passport Card as a surface-only official identification card. But remember: it’s only good for re-entry by land or sea into the United States from the four countries listed. There’s no way around this requirement.

A Passport Card was created mainly for the convenience of residents in border cities to make it easier for commuters and workers to cross back and forth. If all you ever plan to take are cruises that depart and return to the U.S., if you ride Amtrak between the USA and Canada or simply want to drive across the border, a Passport Card will work for you. 

You cannot use a Passport Card for international air travel. Period.

RELATED:  Do You Need A Passport Card or Passport Book for an Alaska Cruise  

What is a Passport Book

A U.S. Passport Book is exactly as described; a book. The familiar navy-colored Passport Book has many pages to be filled with colorful, unique and interesting country stamps. You will receive a stamp on the pages as you go through customs upon arrival into or departure from a country. There is also room for visa stamps.

It’s the only document that the U.S. government will allow you to use to enter a foreign country other than Bermuda, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, and then re-enter the United States on your return. If you plan a transatlantic cruise from the U.S. to Europe and then fly home, you will need a Passport Book to re-enter the United States. A Passport Card is not enough. 

As stated above, a Passport Card is enough identification for a cruise that departs from and returns to the U.S. However, it’s important to remember that if you’re on a cruise and you should become ill and have to fly home, your surface-travel-only passport card will definitely delay your re-entry  into the US. Have a Book and you could be on a flight home asap.

Deciding on a Passport Card vs. Passport Book for Your Cruise

Even though you can take a cruise from the U.S. and return to the U.S. using only a Passport Card, there could be reasons why you should have a Passport Book instead. 

• Injury or sickness:  If you become ill or injured on your cruise, you could be admitted to a local hospital for care and treatment. If that happens, there’s a good chance the ship will depart without you. If this should happen, you will need a U.S. Passport Book to fly home.
• Cruise ship problems – It’s not a frequent problem but cruise ships can be damages or have mechanical issues that are unable to be repaired during your cruise. If this happens, you may need to fly home from a country which requires a passport to set foot on land. You would also need a U.S Passport Book to fly home.

Taking a Cruise Without a Passport Card or Book

Oddly enough, U.S. citizens may still cruise to certain destinations without either a Book or Card. On closed-loop cruises, those that begin and end in a U.S. port, all you need to take are your ship’s boarding pass, a government photo I.D. if you’re over 16 years and a certified birth certificate or certificate of U.S. naturalization.

Eight closed-loop cruise itineraries from the U.S. do not need a Book or Card. These destinations include Alaska, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Cozumel and Baja-Mexico, Canada/New England and Hawai’i.

The consequences of trying to return home to the U.S. without a passport could be life-threatening. Should something unexpected prevent your ship from returning to the U.S. or you or a travel companion are ill or injured, traveling with only a certified birth certificate will certainly prevent a timely return to the United States.

Cost of a Passport Card vs. Passport Book

The cost of a Card versus a Book is about half as expensive. According to the U.S. government travel website, those 16 years of age and up and applying for the first time, the cost of a Passport Book is $145.00. At nearly half as much, the cost for a Passport Card is $65 for those also 16 years and older. 

Sixteen years and younger, the first-time Book is $115 and the Card is only $50. An expediting fee is also available if you need a Passport Book in a hurry. The government mails all Passport Cards first-class USPS.

If you plan a closed-loop cruise and the $80 difference between a Book and a Card is a hardship, then maybe you shouldn’t go on a cruise. Is it really worth the risk should something happen to you or your ship and you’d have to fly home? You’ll most likely have an exorbitant fee for an expedited U.S. passport sent to wherever you are stranded.

My suggestion is if you plan any international travel just bite the bullet and get a Passport Book. Besides, at the end of the day, it’s always fun to look back through the pages in your Book and see all of the neat, colorful and odd-looking stamps you’ve accrued over the years.

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Updated on November 22, 2021 by Sherry Laskin

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Passports, Visas & Citizenship Documentation

Passport Benefits Alaska The Bahamas, Caribbean, Pacific Coast, Bermuda or Canada – Round Trip Cruises Caribbean or The Bahamas – One-Way Cruises Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to Australia (Excluding those with a stop in New Caledonia) Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to Australia (Includes Stop in New Caledonia) Disney Magic at Sea – Australia to New Zealand Disney Magic at Sea – New Zealand to Australia Disney Magic at Sea – New Zealand to New Zealand Europe Pacific Coast, Canada or Sailings Between Hawaii and Vancouver – One Way Cruises Panama Canal Transatlantic Crossing South Pacific Repositioning Sailings – Honolulu to Sydney South Pacific Repositioning Sailings – Sydney to Honolulu

Passport Benefits

Learn about the perks of having a passport when you travel with Disney Cruise Line.

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.

Adults traveling with minors for whom they are not the parent or legal guardian must present a completed Minor Authorization Form signed by the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian, authorizing the adult permission to take the child on the specific cruise, supervise them and allow emergency medical treatment to be administered if necessary.

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

• Original valid US Passport

US Citizens 16 years of Age and Older Traveling to Canada (Vancouver) by Land or Sea

• Original valid US passport OR
• Original valid US passport card OR
• Original valid Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, FAST)

US Citizens 15 years of Age and Younger Traveling to Canada (Vancouver) by Land or Sea

• Puerto Rico birth certificates issued prior to July 1, 2010, 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 and Global Entry cards 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 OR

Canadian permanent residents must present a valid passport and a Permanent Resident Card (PRC) to travel outside Canada.

Canadian Citizens 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 the Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all necessary visas before commencing their cruise.

Learn more about Canadian visa requirements and exceptions.

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you are 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, fort lauderdale, galveston, san diego and 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.

US Citizens (Including Children)

• Original valid Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST)
• Hospital-issued birth certificates are not acceptable.
• Original Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) 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)

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

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

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

Guests should be prepared to present a copy of their I-94 arrival record upon request. A digital copy of this record can be obtained at the US Customs and Border Protection website.

Caribbean or The Bahamas – One-Way Cruises

Sailing from: galveston to san juan, san juan to galveston, fort lauderdale to san juan, san juan to fort lauderdale.

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.

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

Guests should be prepared to present a copy of their I-94 arrival record upon request. A digital copy of this record can be obtained at the US Customs and Border Protection website .

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

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

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.

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)

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. In addition to a valid passport, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen visa ) based on your nationality. It is the Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all necessary visas before commencing their cruise.

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. In addition to a valid passport, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen visa ) and also the United Kingdom based on your nationality. It is the Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all necessary visas before commencing their cruise.

British Isles Cruises from Southampton

• Original valid Passport, valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended

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

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

Us citizens (including children) traveling to or returning from canada by air.

• Original valid US passport

US Citizens (Including Children) Traveling to or Returning from Canada by Land or Sea

• Original Permanent Resident Card (photocopies are not acceptable) AND
• Original valid Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, FAST) OR
• Canadian permanent residents must travel with a valid passport and their Permanent Resident Card (PRC) to travel outside of Canada

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you are 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 . Guests should be prepared to present a copy of their I-94 arrival record upon request. A digital copy of this record can be obtained at the US Customs and Border Protection website.

Panama Canal

• Original valid US passport, valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended
• Original Permanent Resident Card (PRC) AND

Citizens of All Countries (Including Children)

Transatlantic Crossing

Fort lauderdale to barcelona.

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 the ship's 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 possession to present during check-in at the terminal.

This cruise calls at ports in Europe. In addition to a valid passport, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen visa ) based on your nationality. It is the Guest's responsibility to identify and obtain all necessary visas before commencing their cruise.

Southampton to Fort Lauderdale

• Original Permanent Resident Card AND

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

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you are 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 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.

If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), 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.

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

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

Guide to Cruise Passport Policies for U.S. Travelers

• Laura Soper

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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Learn the U.S. passport rules for 16-17-year-olds. Learn about application steps, expedited options, and parent consent in our complete guide.

Where Can U.S. Citizens Travel Without a Passport?

Explore passport-free destinations for U.S. travelers and learn how obtaining a passport can vastly expand your travel opportunities.

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Know Before You Go

What you need to know before you go on a Holland America Line cruise

View all  Frequently Asked Questions

Download Navigator® Your Essential Cruise Companion!

The  Holland America Line Navigator  App is your indispensable tool for cruise planning, embarkation, managing your onboard experience and booking shore excursions.

Download the app before your cruise, log in, and immediately start using Navigator.

Once you’ve completed Online Check-In at  www.hollandamerica.com , retrieve your digital boarding pass via the app to expedite embarkation at the pier. You can also complete your health assessment and book shore excursions prior to your cruise.

General Information

Identification requirements.

Immigration Questionnaire & Online Check-In:  Each individual guest is required to complete the questionnaire in Online Check-In to obtain Express Docs. Please go to our website at hollandamerica.com and complete the Online Check-In process prior to your sail date. After you complete the Online Check-In, your Express Docs including your Boarding Pass will be issued. Please do not forget to print them out prior to leaving home.

Please Note:

• Guests arriving at embarkation without complete and accurate documentation may not join the voyage and will not be entitled to a refund.
• Please complete the Online Check-In process at  hollandamerica.com   72 hours  prior to your sail date. Guests who wait to check in at the terminal risk being unable to sail even if they arrive at the terminal before the vessel leaves. You will be responsible for all costs you incur to join the vessel at the next port.
• If for some reason you have not completed your Online Check-in process at least 3 days prior to departure, you will still be able to print your Express Docs, including the boarding pass, up to the departure date. Guests who have not completed the required check-in prior to departure time are subject to denied boarding.

U.S. government security regulations require us to submit certain guest information to law enforcement authorities at least 60 minutes prior to departure. To meet this requirement, we must have the necessary information in our records at least 90 minutes prior to departure. If we do not have your information by this deadline, you will be unable to sail. Guests are urged to complete the Online Check-in process before leaving home. Guests who wait to check in at the terminal risk being unable to sail even if they arrive at the terminal before the vessel leaves. You will be responsible for all costs you incur to join the vessel at the next port .

PERSONAL TRAVEL IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Holland America Line highly recommends that all guests carry a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the completion date of your travel. Having a passport will enable you to fly from the U.S. to a foreign port in the event you miss your scheduled embarkation or to fly back to the U.S. if you need to disembark the ship mid-cruise due to an emergency.

Immigration and administrative rules may require the vessel to collect and safeguard guest passports and guests to complete landing cards prior to some ports of call. Further information will be provided on board.

PLEASE NOTE : It is your sole responsibility to obtain and have available the proper travel documents that are necessary for your travel, including all costs related to arrangements to obtain entry to countries you visit and re-entry to your destination country.

Boarding may be denied or fines may be levied against those guests without proper documentation. Payment of any fines levied is the responsibility of the individual guest.

For U.S. and Canadian Citizens Travel by Land or Sea:

Travel document requirements vary based on cruise itinerary and whether international flights are required. For voyages that are scheduled to end outside the U.S., a passport that is valid for six months beyond the completion date of your travel is required.

Passports or Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant documents are required for cruises to Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Hawaii, and Mexico. U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 16 and above may present one of the following valid WHTI-compliant documents:

• Passport (recommended travel document) (valid for travel by air, land and sea)
• Passport Card (valid for land and sea border crossings only)
• State Issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – (valid for land and sea border crossings only, not valid on Yukon Cruisetours due to air travel included in the Journey)
• Other documents approved by the Department of Homeland Security

For a list of approved documents visit:

travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html

The EDL driver’s license, or non-driver photo identification, is offered in the U.S. states of Michigan, New York, Vermont and Washington and in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec, to applicants that can prove identity and citizenship. Please note the EDL is not the same as an Enhanced (or Endorsed) Commercial Driver’s License.

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises : U.S. citizens on cruises in the Western Hemisphere that originate and terminate in the same U.S. port are required to have proof of citizenship such as a valid U.S. passport or a government issued birth certificate combined with a government issued photo I.D. Other approved proof of citizenship documents such as a passport card, an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) or certificate of naturalization along with a government-issued photo ID are also acceptable. A passport is still the preferred document.  PLEASE NOTE  –WHTI-compliant documents are acceptable for entry or re-entry into the United States. You may be required to present additional or different travel documents when entering foreign countries, including some countries in the Western Hemisphere.

Birth certificates from Puerto Rico issued prior to  July 1, 2010 are not valid forms of proof of citizenship that is accepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.  Guests from Puerto Rico either need to present a WHTI-compliant document or a government- issued photo identification with a validated birth certificate issued after July 1, 2010.

Children : U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 traveling on a closed-loop cruise (a cruise in the Western Hemisphere which originates and ends in the same U.S. port) will be able to present their government issued birth certificate or other proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card to sail. Birth certificates can be an original or certified copy.

PASSPORT REQUIREMENT WHEN MINORS TRAVEL WITH ONE ADULT ON VOYAGES GOVERNED BY U.S. WESTERN HEMISPHERE TRAVEL INITIATIVE (“WHTI”) (includes travel within BERMUDA, CANADA, CARIBBEAN, MEXICO, UNITED STATES)

When minors are traveling with only one adult 21 years of age or older, Holland America Line requires that all guests must  be in possession of a valid passport. Holland America Line has implemented this requirement so that you all remain together should an emergency arise that requires one or more in your party to be disembarked in a non-U.S. port. Holland America Line cannot guarantee that all members of your party will be allowed to disembark with only a WHTI-compliant document or birth certificate.

NOTE:  If you are not the parent or Legal Guardian of any minor  child traveling with you, you must present an original letter signed by at least one of the child’s parents. The letter from the child’s parent must provide contact information and authorize the traveling adult to take the child on the specific cruise.

For more information regarding passports and WHTI compliant documents, please visit  travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html  or call the National Passport Information Center toll free at 1-877-487-2778 or TDD/TYY at 1-888-874-7793.

Travel by Air:  Passports are required for all international air travel to and from the United States, regardless of age or citizenship. This includes air travel to and from Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Mexico.

For Non-U.S./Non-Canadian Citizens:  For Non-U.S./Non-Canadian Citizens: You must have and carry a passport valid for six months beyond the duration of your travel. Please carefully verify the existing identification requirements for your particular travel situation, including all destinations. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a Green Card. Resident aliens not in possession of this must obtain one at the nearest office of the U.S. Immigration Service. Note that while a passport for a Green Card holder is not required to return to the U.S., your destination country requirements may be different. Please verify your documentation requirements prior to sailing, but we highly recommend Green Card holders travel with their passport as an extra precaution.

Please Note:  To allow us to expedite immigration clearances in the various countries you will be asked to surrender your passport to our staff upon check-in. Some clearances will require face to face inspections, details will be communicated to you onboard.

Rest assured that your passport will be fully secured by our staff. Regardless, it is always good practice, when traveling, to make copies of your passport pages before departing.

Certain countries require that you obtain official authorization (called a visa) before entering the country, and some countries require that you obtain a visa regardless of whether you plan to go ashore in that particular port or not. Usually there is a fee required.

Guests are responsible for verifying and obtaining any necessary travel documents for entry and exit to the countries visited, as these requirements vary depending on the specific port and nationality of the traveler. This includes payment of all costs related to arrangements to obtain entry to the countries you visit. Boarding may be denied or fines levied against those guests arriving at the pier without the proper documentation, and those guests will not be eligible for a refund . Payment of any fines levied is the responsibility of the individual guest. Please note that fees and visa requirements are subject to change without notice. Tourist/visa requirements are determined by passport nationality, not by country of residence.

Visa Service Information:

Don’t put your travel plans at risk; Holland America Line recommends guests utilize a visa service to secure your required documentation. We have partnered with CIBTvisas as a service to assist with the collection of necessary documents. CIBTvisas also provides a concierge service should you wish to have a dedicated Concierge Specialist manage the entire process from start to finish while providing the expertise necessary to ensure your request is approved as quickly as possible. Our dedicated section on the CIBTvisas website can be found at  www.cibtvisas.com/hollandamericaline .

You may reach CIBTvisas by phone at:

• U.S. and Canadian residents: 866 935 8472
• Netherlands residents: 0800-2524632 
• Germany residents: 8003202233 
• Australia residents: 1300964164
• United Kingdom residents: 0800 1218239
• Belgium residents: 0902 150 45
• Singapore residents: 6603 1096
• Spain residents: 902 113 829
• Switzerland residents: 41 (0) 22 884 18 70
• France residents: 0144107272

Residents of all other countries should contact the nearest representative embassy or consulate for proper information.

Visa Waiver Program Requirements:  The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements. ALL VWP travelers to the U.S. will be required to have an approved electronic travel authorization via Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA should expect to be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the U.S. If you reside in the UK please visit  cibtvisas.co.uk/hollandamerica.

Countries participating in the VWP are: Andorra, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brunei, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.

For more details please go to the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Waiver Program page.

Schengen Visa Holders : New requirements pertaining to proof of medical insurance coverage have been adopted for all Schengen visa holders. This requirement does not apply to U.S. or Canadian citizens. All guests should keep themselves advised of changes in government requirements. If you have questions about visa requirements, call CIBTvisas at 1-866-935-8472. You may also choose to send an email message to:  [email protected]  or visit their website at  https://cibtvisas.com/hollandamericaline .

Cruise Documents: Holland America Line Express Docs Eco- friendly Cruise Documents

Preparing for your Holland America Line cruise is now easier, faster and more convenient than ever. With Express Docs, your cruise documents are available up to 15 days before your cruise departure date, and you can print part – or all – of your Express Docs when it’s most convenient for you, 24/7. This includes your boarding pass, itinerary, any applicable vouchers, and if you booked air with Holland America Line, air travel information. Your information is encrypted, secure, easily updated and ready to email or print for yourself, family and friends as often as you wish. No more waiting for printed cruise documents.

What’s more, since our eco-friendly cruise documents are delivered electronically, they help save paper and conserve precious fossil fuels.

Visit  hollandamerica.com  for more information.

To learn more about Holland America Line’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation in all of our operations, visit  hollandamerica.com/sustainability .

Do I Need Vaccines to take a Cruise

Vaccination requirements change frequently. These requirements are established by the countries you are visiting and not by Holland America Line. For this reason, you should contact your local physician, Health Department and/or travel medicine clinic to discuss vaccination requirements for all countries on your itinerary.

Mosquito-borne Illnesses:  Malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever and Chikungunya are found in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Guests should always travel with appropriate clothing and mosquito repellent with DEET or Picaridin to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. In addition, please check with your primary care provider or local travel medicine clinic to see what, if any, vaccinations or other measures are recommended for your specific itinerary. Be certain to bring along a record of all your vaccinations. Check with your health care provider at least six to eight weeks prior to departure, as vaccination requirements and recommendations may change.

Yellow Fever:  Many Yellow Fever immunization requirements are based on traveling from one “infected” or “endemic” country to another. It is also a good idea to bring along a record of your immunizations, as requirements for immunizations may change.

Emergency Phone Numbers

At some point in your travels you may experience an emergency. With this in mind, the following emergency phone numbers are available for your use: 1-800-628-4771. Holland America Line representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to assist you in any way they can, including assistance with travel delays and contacting loved ones.

The numbers are for emergency use only; please do not call unless you are experiencing an emergency of a critical nature. For information concerning airline delays, please see the Arrival Advice / Airline Delays section below.

Guests Under 21

Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21 years old; one adult chaperone is required for every five people under the age of 21. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under age 21.  However, effective on voyages commencing July 1. 2016 and thereafter, the legal drinking age onboard will be 18 for voyages which depart from and return to Europe, China, Hong Kong, Singapore or Taiwan, and the legal drinking age onboard will be 20 for voyages which depart from and return to Japan.  Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation in order to sail. Children must be at least 12 months of age at the time of embarkation to sail on trans-ocean crossings and remote itineraries, where there are more than 2 consecutive sea days.

For voyages that depart from and return to Australia and/or New Zealand, these policies and the legal drinking age apply to guests 18 years or over. Minors under the age of 18 traveling to foreign countries must be accompanied by a parents or guardian.

Changing Your Itinerary

With very limited exceptions (such as some Panama Canal cruises), U.S. law prohibits persons from beginning their cruise in one U.S. port and ending it in a different U.S. port. For this reason, voyages originating and ending in the same U.S. port will not allow embarkation or disembarkation in an alternate U.S. port. Please note that this is a U.S. government regulation over which Holland America Line has no control.

Customs Information

In order to make returning home as smooth and easy as possible, please take note of the following tips. For more information, consult your Customs Agency. Guests returning to the United States can also check the official website of U.S. Customs at  cbp.gov/ .

Registering Your Valuables:  We strongly recommend that you register your valuables with Customs before leaving home. This should be done well in advance of travel at a Customs office near your home. Items that should be registered generally include those not manufactured in your country. If you cannot prove that you owned an item prior to departure, Customs officials may charge you duty to bring it back into your country. Customs pays particular attention to cameras (including special lenses and video equipment), binoculars, radios, laptop computers, foreign-made watches and other similar appliances. Customs officials will not be available at the ship during check-in to register valuables.

Transportation of Currency:  You may take as much currency or as many monetary instruments as you wish on your trip. However, if you take out or bring into the United States more than US$10,000, you are required by law to file a report with the U.S. Customs Service.

Also Canadian residents need to declare if you take out or bring into the country more than CAD10,000. Please remember that many other countries have a similar policy when going ashore and you will be subject to their currency allowances at the current exchange rate. Any additional information concerning currency restrictions, please contact the customs agency in their country.

Customs Allowance:  Each U.S. resident is usually allowed a duty free exemption of US$800; it may be more or less depending upon your itinerary and recent travel outside the country. An additional US$1,000 worth of articles may be brought in and taxed at a reduced flat duty rate. After an absence of seven days or more, Canadian citizens may bring back to Canada up to CAD750 worth of duty-free merchandise, which may include a maximum of 40 ounces of liquor or wine and 200 cigarettes. Guests who are neither U.S. nor Canadian citizens should check with the Customs agency in their country for allowance information before departing. Additional information concerning Customs matters will be provided during your cruise.

Tobacco & Alcohol

• A traveler may include up to 100 cigars and 200 cigarettes (one carton) in the US$800 exemption from duty. Additional cigars and cigarettes may be brought into the country, but they will be subject to duty and taxes. Cigarettes may also be subject to a tax imposed by state and local authorities. Bidis — essentially flavored cigarettes — are not generally permitted entry.
• Generally, one liter of alcohol per person may be entered into the U.S. duty-free by travelers who are 21 or older, although travelers coming from the U.S. Virgin Islands or other Caribbean countries are entitled to more. Additional quantities may be entered, although they will be subject to duty and IRS taxes.

Guests with Disabilities

Holland America Line does not discriminate against persons on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with disabilities. For more specific information regarding the following categories, please visit the “Accessible Cruising” section of our website at hollandamerica.com: Stateroom Information; Mobility Equipment; Ship Transfer Options; Shoreside Mobility, including Airports and/or Train Stations and Land Tours and/or Shore Excursions; Service Animals; Blind or Low Vision; Deaf or Hard of Hearing; Oxygen; Food Allergy Information; Children with Special Needs; and Wheelchair Accessible Route Maps. Holland America Line offers a limited number of staterooms designed to be wheelchair- and scooter-accessible. For the safety of all guests and crew, scooters and other mobility equipment need to be securely stored and charged in the guest’s stateroom and not in hallways or elevator lobbies. Scooters left in these areas could restrict people needing to travel through these areas in an emergency, particularly other guests using mobility aids, since they would have no way of getting by a scooter left in a hallway. For this reason, Holland America Line has size and weight guidelines for scooters. For your safety as well as the safety of fellow guests and crew, guests using powered mobility devices should exercise caution by utilizing reduced speed settings on their mobility device while on board and in terminal facilities. If you plan on bringing a scooter on the ship, please contact:

Guest Accessibility Department

Phone: 1-800-547-8493 (locally at 1-206-626-7044)

TTY: 1-800-254-8669

Email:  [email protected]

Certain ship transfer operations (e.g., during tendering and at the gangways) may not be fully accessible to wheelchairs or scooters. When a ship is unable to dock, guests are taken ashore on smaller boats called tenders. Some guests with limited mobility may find it difficult to embark or disembark the ship at certain times while at dock or while tendering due to steep gangways and steps, particularly during low or high tide. Also, please note that scooters and wheelchairs weighing more than 100 pounds without the battery are not allowed to be transferred from the ship to tender and/or from tender to shore. For persons not capable of walking on their own, the use of a wheelchair will be the primary mobility assistance aid for getting on and off the ship. Situations may occur in which guests with limited mobility may not be able to go ashore at the time they desire or are unable to go ashore at all in certain ports. For the safety of all concerned, the Captain shall make the final determination regarding whether or not it is advisable to provide assistance to guests with mobility limitations or to carry their mobility assistance device (e.g., wheelchair, scooter, walker, etc.), taking into account all appropriate matters including, but not limited to, weather conditions, ship’s location, weight of the guest or his or her mobility device, etc. While every effort is made to assist guests, we are unable to provide crew members who can spend all or most of their time working with a single guest in order to address ongoing special needs. Guests who require that level of care will need to travel with a companion who is able to provide the assistance necessary. Certain third-party transfer and tour facilities may not be fully accessible to guests with disabilities. Although we endeavor to make sure these companies comply with legal requirements, we cannot guarantee all are able to provide facilities that are accessible to persons with disabilities. For detailed, up-to-date information on accessibility issues involving tours, we strongly recommend contacting our Shore Excursions Department prior to embarkation at 1-888-425-9376 (locally at 1-206-626-7320) or visiting the Shore Excursions Office on board. Due to the limited number of lift-equipped vehicles in foreign locations, guests may incur additional costs for transportation related to packages. For information on alternative transportation arrangements and associated costs, please contact our Guest Accessibility Department.

It is essential that we be notified of any special medical, physical or other requirements you may have (including whether you intend to bring a scooter with you) as soon as possible, preferably at the time of booking, so that we may make our best effort to accommodate you. Guests who are unable to care for their own basic needs (e.g., dressing, eating and attending safety drills) MUST have a capable traveling companion. In limited situations (either on board or ashore), we may find it necessary to ask an individual to make alternate travel arrangements, such as if an individual with a disability is unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services. The medical staff on board is not available for daily care unless an individual is hospitalized in the ship’s Medical Center.

Wheelchairs:  Holland America Line has a limited supply of wheelchairs on board. In order to accommodate our guests, wheelchairs are reserved exclusively for embarkation and disembarkation assistance in the pier facility and in emergency situations. Holland America Line is not able to provide complimentary wheelchair assistance other than for the purposes listed above. If you require the regular use of a wheelchair, we recommend that you bring your own wheelchair with you. You may also make advance rental arrangements prior to departure and have a wheelchair delivered directly to the ship. For additional details on the prearranged rental program, please refer to the contact information below for Special Needs at Sea or ScootAround.

Embarkation/Disembarkation — Wheelchair Assistance:  Guests requiring assistance with embarkation and disembarkation procedures on board do not need to request this assistance in advance; however, due to high demand in some ports, there can be a wait for assistance. For embarkation procedures, please advise the Shore Operations staff upon arrival of your need for assistance boarding the ship. Assistance is only available once embarkation has begun, typically not before 11:30 a.m. For disembarkation procedures, please contact Guest Services once on  board to advise them of your need for assistance. Guest Services staff will provide you with details on the times and meeting location where staff will be available to assist you in disembarking the ship.  

Oxygen:  Guests needing continuous or intermittent oxygen for chronic conditions must make their own arrangements prior to travel. Please contact us or your travel advisor for more information. The following companies have been approved for all oxygen and/or oxygen equipment being delivered to a Holland America Line ship:

Special Needs at Sea

Phone: 1-800-513-4515 (locally at 1-954-585-0575)

Email:  [email protected]  Website: specialneedsatsea.com

ScootAround

Phone: 1-877-478-7827 (locally at 1-780-986-6404))

Email : [email protected]  Website:  http://www.scootaround.com

Oxygen and/or oxygen equipment deliveries will NOT be accepted from any other company.  You are welcome, however, to bring your own oxygen and/or oxygen equipment from your home. Please note that our staff and crew are not permitted to handle your oxygen and/ or oxygen equipment during the embarkation and disembarkation process, thus you must be able to handle your supplies if you bring your own. Please contact the Guest Accessibility Department prior to sailing if you will require oxygen while on your cruise. If you require additional information on the ship’s facilities or ability to accommodate your needs, please feel free to contact the Guest Accessibility Department.

Please Note:  Some airlines have restrictions concerning traveling with oxygen and oxygen containers. It is the traveler’s responsibility to be familiar with and comply with the regulations of the airline on which he/she is traveling.

For information regarding the Transportation Security Administration’s Screening Tips for Persons with Disabilities, please visit the Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions section of their website.

With the exception of qualified service animals for guests with disabilities, animals or pets are not allowed on board our ships. If you plan to bring a service animal, you must call our Guest Accessibility Department. You will need to provide health certificate documentation for the animal in your ports of call.

Please Note:  Your itinerary may include ports of call that have very specific and strict requirements that need to be met prior to your service animal being allowed off the ship. Please be sure you understand the requirements for a service animal to disembark in each port of call. The best places to obtain specific information on required documentation and immunizations for your service animal are the U.S. Department of Agriculture, local customs offices in the specific ports and your service animal’s veterinarian. All documentation and immunization requirements are established by government authorities and not by Holland America Line.

Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Beverages Brought Onboard

Revised Policy effective June 1st, 2021

Guests are not allowed to bring alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages on board for consumption or any other use except as follows:

Guests may bring Wine and Champagne onboard, however a corkage fee of USD $20.00 (which is subject to change without notice) will be applied to each bottle (max 750 ml in volume or less). Limitations apply. Wine brought in quantities deemed to be excessive by the vessel or security will be refused.

Wine purchased during company-sponsored shore excursions that visit local wineries are exempt from the on-board corkage fee (offer limited to one bottle of wine per person).

Items such as sodas, energy drinks or other non-alcoholic items are not allowed on board in any form. Plastic water bottles are not allowed. However, an allowance of six liters, twelve (12) cans or cartons (500 ml in volume or less) or six (6) cans or cartons (1 liter in volume or less) of water are allowed per stateroom.  Any amount in excess of this allowance will be not be allowed onboard. Water in plastic bottles will not be allowed onboard in any quantity, including in ports of call. Guests will be asked to discard open beverages in plastic containers prior to boarding. 

All checked and carry-on luggage will be scanned and any prohibited items, including alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages will be removed, confiscated, and discarded.  If Your luggage is locked, the lock may be removed by security or, alternatively, the luggage will be held by security until you can be present for an inspection and any items in question further identified and/or surrendered.  Holland America Line shall not be responsible for any loss, cost, disappointment or damage of any kind as a result of any luggage lock removal, alcoholic/nonalcoholic items, or other prohibited items removed and discarded in violation of the policy. You agree to surrender alcoholic beverages that are purchased duty free from the ship's gift shop, or at ports of call, to Holland America Line, which will be delivered to your stateroom just prior to disembarking the voyage. Any wine or champagne supplied by the Holland America Line to you is not subject to a corkage fee.  Purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers (including plastic containers) for use in conjunction with medical device(s) are allowed in checked luggage and must be packed with the device(s). Distilled/purified water in factory-sealed containers (including plastic containers) for the reconstitution of infant formula is allowed in checked luggage for staterooms with infant bookings. Limitations apply. Allowances are subject to change without notice and remain subject to situational assessments by both security and the vessel.

An 18% Service Charge is automatically applied to all Beverage Purchases, Bar Retail Items, Specialty Restaurant Cover Charges and all For Purchase A La Carte Menu Items. Local Sales Taxes Applied where required.

Cruise Preparation

Baggage policies & packing advice.

Baggage Insurance : Although we try to handle your bags carefully while they are in our possession, please be aware that Holland America Line cannot guarantee there will be no loss of, or damage to, your baggage or belongings. If Holland America Line, due to any cause whatsoever, is liable for loss of, damage to or delay of your property, the amount of Holland America Line's liability will not exceed US$250 per bag, per guest up to a maximum of two bags per guest for sailings 14 days or less, or up to a maximum of three bags per guest for sailings 15 days or longer. Holland America Line's baggage policy is further detailed in the baggage section of your Cruise Contract.  Additional coverage is available with the purchase of a Holland America Line Standard or Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan. Your travel advisor can provide you with additional information if you are interested in this option.

Restrictions:  Airlines, limousines and other transfer vehicles have baggage allowance policies which may limit the amount and/or weight of baggage you may take with you and/or impose baggage charges. You are responsible for complying with the policies. Please keep this in mind when packing.

Luggage Tag Information:  Holland America Line is pleased to introduce new Holland America Line’s Express Docs cruise documents, along with new luggage tags. Please see the following important information about your luggage tags.

Printable luggage tags  are available at the Online Check-In start page. You may select to print as many as you need for your vacation.

The new luggage tags will be available for you at the airport on the day of sailing and the pier prior to your final check in, too. At the airport, please find Holland America Line representatives outside of the customs area or/and at the baggage carousel. The representatives will help you with luggage tags. Also, luggage tags will be located near the entrance to the pier area where you will be checking in your luggage. The luggage tags are clearly marked with your ship name. Please attach a tag to each piece of luggage you will be checking on the cruise. There is a space on the tag for you to print the following information;  Name, Stateroom Number,  and  Sailing Date .

Please Note:  For security reasons, baggage without tags or owner identification may not be loaded on the ship. If you should have questions or need assistance, Holland America Line representatives at the pier will be happy to assist you.

Packing Advice:  We also suggest that you consider placing articles in clear plastic bags inside your baggage to minimize handling by airport security screeners. Pack shoes on top of other contents in your baggage to expedite the screening process. Finally, make sure that you label the inside of your carry-on and checked baggage with your name and contact information. Bear in mind that the screening process for any point of embarkation is similar to that at an airport. As such, all weapons and dangerous devices are prohibited and may result in denied boarding. For complete, updated information regarding travel, please check the official website of the Transportation Security Administration at  tsa.gov .

Please Note:  Firearms, explosives, fireworks, other weapons and knives or sharp blades over two and half inches long and illegal drugs of any kind are prohibited without exception. For safety reasons drones and any other remote controlled aerial devices/ toys are not allowed on board our ship. Extension cords (without surge protectors) are allowed on board when used with proper caution. However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned the last day of the cruise prior to debark. For additional information regarding prohibited items please visit the Frequently Asked Questions section of hollandamerica.com.

Important:  Do not pack your passport, medications, Express Docs or electronic airline tickets in your checked baggage. (Remember that checked baggage might not be accessible at all times.) Keep these items close at hand in your purse or jacket pocket. We also strongly suggest that you carry or otherwise keep with you important items such as perishables, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry, gold, silver or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments, records or other valuable or business documents, laptop computers, cellular telephones, cameras, or other video or electronic equipment, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, binoculars, film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes or CDs. During the voyage, a safe to store your valuables and important documents is available in your stateroom.

Holland America Line assumes no responsibility for the items listed above. If Holland America Line, due to any cause whatsoever, is liable for loss of, damage to or delay of your property, the amount of Holland America Line’s liability will not exceedUS$250 per bag, per guest up to a maximum of two bags per guest for sailings 14 days or less, or up to a maximum of three bags per guest for sailings 15 days or longer.  Holland America Line's baggage policy is further detailed in the baggage section of your Cruise Contract. Additional coverage is available with the purchase of a Holland America Line Standard or Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan.

Medication:  Your prescription medication should be kept close at hand in your purse or carry-on bag rather than in your checked baggage. In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, pack enough prescription medication for at least 2 weeks beyond the length of your travel itinerary. Keep it with you at all times and if possible, leave all medication in its original container, and carry a list of the prescription names, dosage amounts and times taken for all medications. Holland America Line will assist in filling prescriptions. However, please note that additional charges will apply and that not all medications are available in all countries or ports of call.

Please Note:  Persons in possession of illegal drugs are subject to immediate disembarkation and reporting to law enforcement authorities. This could result in legal proceedings. Please keep in mind that the drug laws in many countries can be very restrictive and the penalties severe.

For these purposes, marijuana, even if prescribed for medicinal purposes, is considered an illegal drug as it is prohibited both under U.S. law as well as the laws of all or most of the countries that the ship visits. Prescription Marinol, which is used by some as an alternative to marijuana, is permitted.

Mobility Equipment: The safety of our guests and crew is our number one priority. For this reason:

Scooters and other mobility equipment are required to be securely stored and charged in the guest’s stateroom when not in use and may not be stored in hallways or elevator lobbies.

Scooters and other mobility equipment stored in hallways or elevator lobbies are a safety hazard and will be removed immediately.

Guests using mobility aids should select a stateroom that will meet their needs and allow for appropriate storage of their mobility equipment. Most doorways in non-accessible staterooms will not allow for adequate storage of moderate or larger size scooters.

For safety reasons, Holland America Line has also devised recommended size guidelines for the electric mobility equipment used on our ships.

For detailed information regarding mobility equipment please refer to the GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES section of this document or visit the Accessible Cruising section of our website at  hollandamerica.com.

Daytime  dress is casual. Shirts/cover-ups and footwear are always required indoors. Most evenings  smart casual attire is appropriate. Shorts, pool and beachwear, distressed jeans and tank tops are not permitted in table service restaurants. On Dressy Nights  we take it up a notch and recommend slacks, skirts, dresses, blouses, collared shirts and jackets. Jeans, shorts and T-shirts are only allowed in the casual dining restaurants. On Grand Voyages when suggested attire is  Formal , suits or dresses are recommended.

Electrical Appliances

Electrical Appliances:  ** All staterooms are equipped with standard 110 AC and 220 AC outlets. Guests with pre- or post-cruise hotel packages may want to bring converters and/or adapters for their hotel stay. All staterooms are equipped with hair dryers. Electrical devices such as small fans, power strips, multi plug box outlets/ adaptors, and extension cords without surge protectors are allowed onboard when used with proper caution. If such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned the last day of the cruise prior to debark. For safety reasons, travel irons, and electric water heaters/kettles may not be used in your stateroom. You may order hot water from our complimentary In-Room Dining service 24 hours a day. Also, full laundry and valet services are available on all of our ships.

City Stays & Pre/Post Overland Packages

Let the vacation begin the moment you arrive in a new country. Or let it continue, as you disembark from the ship and journey inland. A seamless transition is what our pre- and post-cruise hotels and tours are all about. We’ve arranged all the details – from luggage handling to transportation, City Stays to expert tour guides – so you are free to immerse yourself in places and experiences that justly rank among travel’s greatest highlights.

If you have not already purchased your City Stays & Pre/Post Overland Packages, Holland America Line can assist you. Visit  hollandamerica.com   for more information. Have your travel advisor call World Cruise Reservations at 1-800-522-3399 or 1-206-626-7353 to add services to your itinerary.

Preparing For Your Flight

Since arrival and departure times are subject to last minute changes by the airlines, we recommend that you call your airline(s) 24 hours before your initial flight departure (72 hours for international flights) to verify all of the flight numbers, and departure and arrival times shown on your ticket. Plan to be at the airline counter at least two hours before flight time for domestic flights and three hours before flight time for international flights.

Please verify the spelling of your full name and date of birth to make sure it matches the identification document that you will be presenting at the airport, for example your passport or driver's license.  You  do not  need to include any suffixes on your airline ticket. Flight options can be managed by logging into your cruise profile at  www.hollandamerica.com .

Flight options include:

• Changes to your already confirmed flights (change fees and differences in fare may apply)
• Seat assignment requests
• Meal restrictions/requests
• Mobility requirements
• TSA information
• Frequent flyer information

Some flight options can also be managed directly with the airline by visiting their website and using your airline locator to access your flight details.

Guests are responsible for arranging special air travel related service requests such as, advance seat assignments, in-flight meal requests, wheelchairs and any other airline services. Holland America Line and its onboard staff are not able to confirm flights from on board our vessels.

Bon Voyage Gifts & Gift Packages

If you would like to send a bon voyage gift to one of your fellow guests or set up your own private bon voyage toast, we invite you to do so. Holland America Line also offers a variety of gift packages for guests celebrating a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon or other special event. To purchase a gift for a guest, please visit our  Buy a Gift for a Guest page  or contact our Ship Services Department at:

Holland America Line Ship Services Department

450 Third Avenue West Seattle, WA 98119 Phone: 1-800-541-1576

Fax: 1-800-207-3547

Email:  [email protected]

Gift Order  items include a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, clothing, casino chips and flowers at very reasonable prices. Packages such as “Renewal of Vows,” “Happy Anniversary,” “Romantic Voyage” and “Just for Us” include a variety of services and mementos to commemorate your special occasion. Gift orders must be prepaid and received two weeks in advance of sailing. Some last-minute gift orders may be charged to your Holland America Line Rewards Visa Card, VISA®, American Express®, MasterCard® or Discover® card up to two working days before sailing.

Holland America Line Rewards VISA® Card:  Use your new Holland America Line Rewards Visa Card and you’ll be on your next dream vacation before you know it. Earn Holland America Points on qualifying purchases you make and DOUBLE Holland America points for any Holland America Line purchases. To learn more and apply for the Holland America Line Rewards Visa Card,  please visit  hollandamericavisa.com

Make your wedding dreams a reality. Choose from a wedding on board one of our ships or at a land destination. Then sail away  for your romantic honeymoon! For more information contact Royal Ocean Events at 1-888-475-5511 or 1-604-940-1181. Or please visit  royalwed.com.

As You Wish® Dining

Our As You Wish dining lets you select the venue and style that suits you. Choose from a festive multi-course affair, a quick casual dinner for two or an intimate meal in the privacy of your stateroom.

*All restaurants onboard will be open with some temporary modifications to Open Dining and Classic Pre-Set Dining times due to the current health and safety protocols.

Dining Venues

The Elegant Dining Room:

• A luxurious dining experience in a room graced with fine art and antiques.
• Multi-course menus feature offerings from classic preparations and regionally inspired cuisine to vegetarian options.
• Choose traditional pre-set seating and dining times or a flexible open schedule — the choice is yours to make prior to departure for your cruise.

Flexible Open Dining:  Open dining times are 5:00pm to 9:00pm. The same gracious service and sophisticated exquisite dining experience is featured, as it is in pre-set dining. If you choose the flexible, open-seating program in the Dining Room, you may make reservations by calling the dining reservation number on board or simply come to the Dining Room during dining hours.

Classic Pre-Set Dining:  The traditional pre-set dining times are 5:00pm and 7:30pm in the Dining Room. You may request seating time, table size and indicate with whom you wish to dine. All such requests should be made before sailing through your travel advisor. Requests will be confirmed or waitlisted at the time of booking. Table number and table size are on request only, and will be assigned by the Maitre d' on board. The status of your seating request will be listed on your Cruise Contract. Your seating assignment will be noted on your guest card upon boarding.

Please Note:  You may choose either flexible/open dining or classic pre-set dining in the Dining Room, at the time of booking.

The Pinnacle Grill Experience:

• Intimate dining featuring Double R Ranch Beef and fresh seafood.
• Luxurious appointments.

Other Delightful Dining Options:

• The Lido with fresh, cooked-to-order specialties for breakfast and lunch.
• Made-to-order entrées and casual dinner in the Lido
• Dive In featuring hamburgers and hot dogs.
• Complimentary 24-hour Room Service.
• Classic High Tea once per cruise.
• Late-night snack each night.
• On the Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Nieuw Statendam: Tamarind, for exotic Pan-Asian cuisine
• Canaletto, featuring classic Italian cuisine in a relaxed setting

Special Diets and Meals:  Kosher, Passover Seder dinner, salt-free, fat-free, baby food, diabetic and other special dietary needs can be accommodated only with advance notification. For special meal arrangements, please contact the Ship Services Department at 1-800-541-1576 (or email: [email protected]) at least 90 days prior to departure.

For Kosher meal request, please complete  click here  to download a Kosher meal request form for voyages that are not in Europe. For all Europe voyages, please  click here  to download the Europe Voyages Kosher meal request. REQUESTS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 90 DAYS PRIOR TO SAIL DATE.

While we try to fulfill all requests, it may not always be feasible. Holland America Line reserves the right to substitute products when specified brands are not available. An additional charge may be applied. Reconfirm any special requests with the Maitre d after you board.

Kosher meals are prepared off the ship in a kosher kitchen, frozen and brought to the table sealed in their original containers. There is no kosher kitchen on board, nor do we have kosher dishes, utensils, pots or pans on the ship. Cooking facilities onboard are not considered kosher.

Last-Minute Check List

To ensure peace of mind while you are away, we offer this last-minute checklist of things to do before you go.

• Be sure to bring proper  proof of citizenship, picture ID, visas (if applicable) and proof of any applicable immunizations. For more information, see the IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS section.
• Verify that your identification and travel documents, medication, jewelry, camera, film, cash and other valuables with you in a carry- on bag and will be available at all times.
• Please print out Express Docs including Boarding Pass prior to your sail date.
• Shore Excursions are available for purchase online until three days prior to the sailing.
• Download the Holland America Line Navigator App  and upload your photo to expedite embarkation at the pier. 
• Bring your travel and health insurance information and have it handy at all times. In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, pack enough prescription medication for at least 2 weeks beyond the length of your travel itinerary. Keep it with you at all times and if possible, leave all medication in its original container, and carry a list of the prescription names, dosage amounts and times taken for all medications. It is also a good idea to bring your prescription for eye glasses or contacts. 
• Both casual and dressy attire will be essential during your cruise. For more detailed information, please see the PACKING ADVICE AND CLOTHING sections.
• Leave copies of your passport, electronic airline tickets, traveler checks and any credit cards you plan to use with a family member or trusted friend.
• Inform your bank or credit card company that you are traveling abroad to avoid any challenges with using your credit card on the cruise
• Distribute your ship phone number to friends and relatives.
• Place a card with your name and address inside your baggage, as well as on the outside.
• Have the post office hold your mail. Also, stop your newspaper delivery or have a friend or neighbor take them in for you.

Arrival Advice

Arrival instructions.

The following information should be used as a guideline only. For specific arrival instructions applicable to your itinerary, please consult your Travel Documents.

City Stays and Pre/Post Overland Packages: If you have purchased a Holland America Line hotel or overland tour packages, you will find information in your Express Docs. Be sure to keep your Express Docs on your person or in your carry-on bag so you can access them easily.

Arriving by Air: Holland America Line representatives will be stationed in the airport baggage claim area or outside the customs area (depending on local customs regulations), to greet guests and assist those who are eligible to be transferred to the pier. You will recognize our representatives by their Holland America signs. If you do not see our representatives, please have one paged. Please note: This service is available only on days of sailing. Please refer to Express Docs for more specific information regarding your arrival airport.

Ground transfers may be purchased between select major airports and the ship and from ship to select major airports on the day of embarkation and disembarkation only, as well as airport to hotel and hotel to airport in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Transfers are available to Flight Ease® guests and to guests who have independent flight plans. For more information see our  transfers FAQ .

Guests with independent flight plans, who have purchased transfers on the day of embarkation through Holland America Line, must advise us of your air schedule at least 14 days prior to arrival to receive the transfer service.

Airport Taxes

Some countries impose an arrival or departure tax, which cannot be included on an airline ticket. In most cases this is paid by each guest upon check-in and may have to be paid in the local currency.

Airline Delays

From time to time guests encounter transportation delays in getting to their cruise ship. If it is your day of sailing and this happens to you, please follow these guidelines:

• Advise your airline at the earliest opportunity that you are a cruise guest destined for a sailing that day. Working directly with the carrier is important, as the airlines are usually able to arrange alternative flights.
• If you believe a delay will cause you to arrive in the port of embarkation less than two hours before the ship’s scheduled departure or if you are concerned for any reason that the ship may leave before you arrive, our representatives may be able to advise you of arrangements to minimize disruptions in your vacation plans.

Ask the airline to immediately advise our Travel Services Department, or call us yourself at 1-800-628-4771. Representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. These numbers are provided for emergency use only; please do not call unless it is your day of departure and you are experiencing a delay. All other questions and concerns regarding air arrangements should be directed to your travel advisor. For further information on our relationship with airlines, please refer to your Cruise Contract.

Note: If you have purchased air transportation independently from Holland America Line, you will be responsible for any and all expenses incurred when joining the ship in progress.

Transfer Policy & Information

For guests who have made independent flight plans and purchased any of Holland America Line’s transfers, you must advise Holland America Line of your air schedule at least 14 days prior to arrival. If Holland America Line does not receive the flight information, you will not receive the transfer and will be ineligible for reimbursement of this service.

Airport/Ship Transfers:  Transfers from the port city airport to the ship on the day of embarkation, and from the ship to the port city airport, on the day of disembarkation are available for purchase. To purchase transfers, please have your travel advisor call Holland America Line at 1-877-724-5425.

Note: Ground transfers may be purchased between select major airports and the ship and from ship to select major airports on the day of embarkation and disembarkation only, as well as airport to hotel and hotel to airport in Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Airport/Hotel Transfers:  Transfers from the airport to your hotel and hotel to ship are provided to all guests who have purchased a Holland America Line hotel package. Hotel to ship transfer details will be available in your Hotel Welcome Letter provided upon check-in at your hotel.

Accessible Transfer Requirements:  If you require a lift for boarding the transfer vehicle, please contact us or have your travel advisor advise our Guest Accessibility Department (please see contact information in the GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES section) as soon as possible, so we can arrange a special transfer. Reconfirm any special transfer requirements for disembarkation with the on board. In cities of embarkation and/or disembarkation outside the United States, wheelchair-lift vehicles may not be available. Please call the Guest Accessibility Department for detailed information.

Boarding Procedures

We strongly encourage you to complete the  check-in process  at our website at  hollandamerica.com  and to  download the Holland America Line Navigator App . Go to the Navigator App and upload a photo.After you have completed the Online Check-in process, please print a Boarding Pass or access your electronic boarding pass on Navigator. Upon arrival at the pier, you will need to present your Boarding Pass, have your passport and applicable visas verified and your picture taken if you have not uploaded a photo on Navigator. Your stateroom keycard will be delivered to your stateroom.

Please Note:  This online procedure must be completed prior to your sail date.

If you completed the Online Check-in , please have the following documents ready to present at check-in:

• Express Docs including your Boarding Pass
• Proper proof of citizenship
• Applicable Visas

U.S. government security regulations require us to submit certain guest information to law enforcement authorities at least 60 minutes prior to departure. To meet this requirement, we must have the necessary information in our records at least 90 minutes before departure. If we do not have your information by this deadline, you will be unable to sail. Guests are urged to complete the Online Check-in process before leaving home. Guests who wait to check in at the terminal risk being unable to sail even if they arrive at the terminal before the vessel leaves. You will be responsible for all costs you incur to join the vessel at the next port.

Ship Identification Card:  Upon completion of check-in you will receive a ship identification card. This ship ID card serves as your identification for security procedures when embarking and disembarking the ship, and for making purchases on board. It is also your access card to your stateroom.

Please Note:  Please have your ship ID card and a valid picture identification issued by an official government agency ready and available whenever getting on or off the ship, as you will need to scan your ship ID card at the gangway for boarding. Also, although not required at the ship gangway, you may be required to present a valid picture ID to pass through terminal security.

Embarkation Time:  Boarding begins at 12:00 pm. All guests must be checked in at least 90 minutes prior to the published sailing time.

To allow us to expedite immigration clearances in the various countries you will be asked to surrender your passport to our staff upon check-in. Some clearances will require face to face inspections, details will be communicated to you onboard. Rest assured that your passport will be fully secured by our staff.

Regardless, it is always good practice, when traveling, to make copies of your passport pages before departing.

Our embarkation procedures are smooth and easy—you carry nothing but your hand baggage, and everything is beautifully organized. Although embarkation may begin as early as 11:30am, our previous sailing guests will have just disembarked and we will still be in the process of preparing the ship for your cruise. We anticipate that your stateroom will be ready at approximately 1:00pm. Therefore, you are welcome to make yourself at home in the bar, lounge or pool areas. Your baggage will arrive in your stateroom later that afternoon. The Lido Market embarkation buffet and the Pool Grill will open at 11:30am.

Please Note:  There are restrictions on consuming alcoholic beverages brought on board the ship; please refer to the ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BROUGHT ON BOARD section.

Visitor Policy

In today’s era of heightened security, Holland America Line has implemented a “no visitor” policy. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. Friends may easily arrange to send a bon voyage gift directly to your stateroom, or you may throw a party of your own for fellow guests. For more information please see the BON VOYAGE GIFTS & GIFT PACKAGES section.

Shipboard Life

Activities on board.

What will you do today? There are so many choices on your Holland America Line cruise. You may choose to participate in as many (or as few) activities as you wish. You can check the Happenings on Board via  Navigator  to view a complete schedule of shipboard activities to help plan your day. The choices are endless. You can learn about your itinerary’s ports of call with our Explorations Central™ programming, watch a live cooking demonstration, challenge yourself with a game of trivia or join a pickleball tournament!

You may wish to sunbathe, swim or simply find a quiet spot and do nothing at all. In the evening you’ll find a wide variety of music and entertainment, award winning production shows, theme nights, movies and more! There’s never a dull moment on your Holland America Line cruises.

Holland America Line Navigator

Manage your cruise with our free app! Login to your account before you ever step onboard to get prepared for your journey. Once you get onboard you can check out what's happening on board, explore and book shore excursions for your entire voyage, browse dinner menus and book dining, keep in touch with traveling companions on board with chat, see account details including your onboard statement and more. 

No internet purchase required to download or use on board. If downloading or using off ship, your regular carrier rates may apply.

Shore Excursions

Holland America Line offers a wide range of award-winning shore excursions, providing priceless experiences at destinations around the world. Professional, local guides and independent tour operators that meet our high standards lead each tour. Our shore excursions provide you worry-free experiences that guarantee your return to the ship and maximize your time ashore. 

Our dedicated shore excursion Reservation Agents and onboard staff offer expert support. Call us toll-free at 1-888-425-9376 or 206-626-7320. In Australia, call us toll free at 1-800-260-639. Shore excursion Reservation Agents are available Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific), and Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Pacific). You may also find more information on our tours and shore excursion programs on hollandamerica.com. Please log in to purchase your shore excursions. 

Tours purchased through Holland America Line are also backed by our Best Price Guarantee. Find a better price on any tour we offer and we'll refund you 110 percent of the price difference in the form of an onboard credit.

You may find more information on our tours and shore excursion programs on hollandamerica.com. Please log in to purchase your shore excursions. Tours are available for purchase up to three days before sailing.

The Collections of Holland America Line

Whether you are interested in a cooking class with a local chef, a private car complete with driver and guide, or a chance to encounter wildlife up close, Holland America Line offers a shore excursion designed for you. The Collections of Holland America Line represent tours of a particular focus, available only in select ports.  

• Medallion Collection:  Whether you are interested in a cooking class with a local chef, a private car complete with driver and guide, or a chance to encounter wildlife up close, Holland America Line offers a shore excursion designed for you. The Collections of Holland America Line represent tours of a particular focus, available only in select ports.
• Encore Collection:  Designed especially for repeat guests, our Encore Collection lets you discover what lies beyond the well-known attractions you’ve already seen.
• World Wonders Collection:  Natural treasures, architectural marvels, technical wonders—tours in this collection have a common element: the ability to inspire.
• Signature Collection:  Whether you travel by car or minivan, boat or plane, you choose the companions and sights that suit you on exclusive options designed for independent-minded travelers.
• Cruise with Purpose®:  Your footprint will be light and your soul enriched on our innovative Cruise with Purpose shore excursions. These tours focus simply on improving our planet one voyage at a time.

Our Commitment to the Environment

At Holland America Line, cruising is our passion. We are equally passionate about protecting and preserving the pristine destinations that we visit. For many years we have emphasized environmental stewardship and conservation in our operations. We believe that safeguarding our guests, crew, ships, and the environment is the right thing to do and essential to the success of our business.

Our ships are as environmentally sound as they are beautiful. We welcome you to learn more about our commitment to protecting the environment by reviewing our sustainability report at www.hollandamerica.com. Here are just a few of our environmental efforts:

Environmental Management System:   All of our ships are ISO 14001 certified by LRQA, North America.

Environmental Officers:   Stationed on board every ship to provide environmental training and oversee shipboard compliance with environmental requirements.

Reducing waste:  Our waste management approach focuses on reducing the volume and toxicity of waste we generate. We have gone to great lengths to remove hazardous chemicals from our operations including dry cleaning, medical and photographic chemicals, and cleaning supplies. Whenever possible, we reuse existing materials and equipment, and we recycle many materials where recycling infrastructure is available at our ports of call. We donate reusable goods from our ships to nonprofit organizations and working with port authorities to identify additional vendors who are capable of recycling cruise ship waste.

Conserving Water and Reducing Waste Water Discharges:   We make the most of our water. Conserving water results in less energy spent making water, thus saving fuel. The more efficient we can be with our water use, the less wastewater is generated, treated and discharged when we’re done using it — saving energy and limiting discharges.

To accomplish these initiatives, we use low-flow systems for toilets and showers in the staterooms, which conserves the amount of water used on board and therefore the quantity of wastewater treated and discharged.

Environmental Awards

Our activities to protect the environment have not gone unnoticed. Holland America Line has recently won the following environmental honors:

Green Gateway Award: Port of Seattle’s Green Gateway Partners Award program, 2010–2016, and the Technology Innovator Award in 2015

Blue Circle Award:  Port Metro Vancouver’s EcoAction program for commitment to sustainability, 2010–2014

Porthole Cruise Magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards:

Most Eco-Friendly Line, 2014

Guest Invitation to Environmental Excellence

We invite and encourage all of our guests to assist us as we work to protect the environment, both on board and while ashore. You can make a difference in the following ways:

• Towel Reuse Option:   Similar to many fine hotels, you can obtain fresh towels simply by leaving the used ones on the floor. To reuse your towel, simply hang it on the bathroom door or towel rack. Reusing your towels will reduce energy, water and detergent consumption required for daily washings.
• Turn Off Stateroom Lights and TV When Not in Use:   As when ashore, energy conservation goes a long way to helping us protect the environment.
• Water Conservation:   Just as when ashore, water conservation is an important environmental initiative. Please help us reduce water use.

Kids Club Youth Program

Holland America Line’s youth activities program Kids Club offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17.

A dedicated team of youth professionals invite kids and teens to join their friends in arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties.

Program Highlights

Kids : Painting Picassos, parachute playtime, songs and stories along with theme parties “Cosmic Cruisers”, “Dino-Mite Night” and “Ships Ahoy Pirate Treasure Hunt Adventure” keep our junior cruisers ages 3 - 6 years entertained.

Tweens : Nukeball, Xbox Tournaments, and Olympic relay races along with theme parties “Brave the Night”, “Mysterious Spy Night” and “Country Carnival” ensure that guests ages 7 - 12 years look forward to each day at Kids Club.

Teens : Mocktail Parties, karaoke contests, trivia contests, jewelry designs, video games, staff vs. teens volleyball tournaments; together with themed events “Face Your Fears”, “Casino Games for Prizes” and “TV Game Show Night” allow teens 13 - 17 to attend events in a relaxed environment allowing them to comfortably make friends while having fun.

Program Registration

(Required for kids and tweens ages 3 – 12)

Kids’ Program (ages 3 – 6) : All children participating in the youth program must be completely toilet trained and pull–up free. Youth Staff cannot assist in the washroom in any way. Children ages 3 - 6 years old have a sign in and out policy. A password will be selected by the parent/guardian of the child. The password will need to be disclosed to the youth staff upon pick up of the child. The minimum age to participate in Kids Club is three years. No exceptions will be made.

Tweens’ Program (ages 7 – 12) : Tweens ages 7 - 12 years old have a sign in and out policy. A password will be selected by the parent/guardian of the child. The password will need to be disclosed to the youth staff upon pick up of the child.

Teens’ Program (ages 13 – 17) : There are no registration or sign in/out procedures for teen programming.

Please note that each program features age specific activities and events and children are required to participate in the program designed for their age.

Children must meet minimum age requirements for each age group, at the time of sailing to participate in programming. No exceptions will be made.

Services on Board

Holland America Line ships have all the amenities and services you expect to find in a fine resort — as our valued guests, we don’t want you to lack a thing.

Beauty Salon/Spa:  The Greenhouse Spa & Salon is our premier, luxury day spa. The Greenhouse Spa combines the best of the most distinctive and luxurious spas on sea and land integrated with proven home spa programs and exclusive products that enhance life and promote well-being. All professional services are available from 8:00am until 10:00pm. Appointments are strongly suggested, particularly for Dressy Nights. Appointments may be made in advance on our web site at  hollandamerica.com  or once on board.

Salon Services                   

• Hairstyling
• Manicures & Pedicures
• Facial treatments
• Teeth whitening
• Man’s grooming

Spa Services

• Aroma stone massage
• Thermal suite and hydro pool
• Aromatherapy treatments
• Seaweed wrap or float
• Slimming treatments
• Acupuncture   

Fitness Center:  To help you stay in shape, all Holland America Line ships are equipped with a fitness center that offers both aerobic and strength-training equipment. In addition, a professional Fitness Instructor is available to instruct you in proper techniques of using the equipment. Hours are from 6:00am until 9:00pm. Personal training and specialty classes such as yoga and Pilates are available for a nominal fee. Please note that minimum age for guests using the fitness center is 16.

Swimming:  Swimming pools are available on board all of our ships, and there are plenty of deck chairs and beach towels available for your use on deck. Should you need anything—a refreshing beverage or a lap blanket — an attentive deck steward will be nearby to assist you. Beach Towels to take ashore will be available upon arrival at the Gangway.

Please Note:  Children wearing any type of diaper, including swimming diapers, or who are not toilet trained are not allowed into the swimming pool and whirlpool areas.

Shops On Board:  A world-class shopping experience is just steps away. All Holland America Line ships offer a variety of wonderful merchandise from around the world. The Signature Shops on board offer a great selection of fine jewelry, watches, fragrances, premium liquor, exclusive Holland America souvenirs and more all at tax and duty free savings. Each item is authentic and many are branded with designer names you have come to trust. Our knowledgeable specialists will gladly answer all your questions and are dedicated to providing you with excellent service.

Port Shopping Ambassador Program:  Your cruise vacation would not be complete without experiencing some of the world’s best duty-free shopping. On selected cruises you’ll find Holland America Line’s Port Shopping Ambassador Program. It is designed to assist you in finding the finest treasures in the ports of call at savings of 20-60% below U.S. prices. Each recommended merchant was selected on the basis of price, selection, reputation, quality, service and a commitment to shopping satisfaction. Therefore, you can shop with confidence knowing these merchants are committed to stand behind your purchases.

Check your daily When & Where program or the Navigator app for location and times of the Port Shopping Ambassador’s Talk. Important Customs information and shopping maps will be provided at the talk. Also, be sure to enjoy the Compass book located in your stateroom.

Photo Gallery:  Your Image Creators are located at your Photo Gallery and are pleased to present for you many rich and varied photographs capturing your cruise. We welcome you to consult with your Image Creators for all your photographic needs. We offer a fully digital service bringing you the latest in high quality, photographic products such as Joe Craig Black Label Art Photography, an exclusive portrait service for Holland America Line’s guests that redefines cruise photography — sittings are limited so please book early.

Art Auctions:  Picture yourself in a friendly bidding war for an unusual etching or winning a free work of art just for attending! Experience the thrill of bidding on great works of art including fine art, animation, and sports memorabilia. Registration is free and there is no obligation to bid. Complimentary champagne will be served at the auctions.

Casino:  A wonderful world of chance, skill and luck awaits you in our Casino. A gamut of games from sizzling slots with huge progressive jackpots to a parade of poker games is there for your enjoyment. Our friendly international staff will teach you how to play, entertain you in a tournament or patiently wait while you decide whether to hold or fold. The Casino is not open in port and certain restricted waters and you must be 18 or over to play.

Future Cruise Consultant:

Benefits of Booking On Board

The best time to book your next cruise is while cruising with Holland America Line. Book your next Holland America Line cruise while on board and receive Double Onboard Spending Credit up to US$500 per person, good for your next Holland America Line Cruise.

Future Cruise Deposit Program (FCD)

Unsure of your next cruise? You can still take advantage of this exclusive onboard offer without confirming a specific itinerary! Plus you will receive a reduced deposit and up to US$100 per person in Shipboard Credit with our Future Cruise Deposit program.

Limited time offer, Savings for Onboard Bookings Only

Book on board and you can reserve your next cruise at a reduced deposit of only US$100, US$300 or US$1,000 per person and receive a shipboard credit of up to US$500.00 per person. (If you choose to take advantage of Holland America’s cruise Cancellation Protection this payment will be due prior to the cancellation period.) No additional deposits will be due until final payment. The reduced deposit applies to sailings of 3 days or longer. Should you need to cancel your reservation, your reduced deposit will be applicable to another Holland America Line cruise within the next four years.

Please Note:  This offer is not applicable for Grand World Voyage, Grand Voyages or segments thereof. Please speak to the Future Cruise Consultant regarding other amenities for these voyages.

Book the Stateroom or Suite You Want

When you book on board, you have a much better opportunity of receiving the stateroom or suite that best suits your traveling style; this includes preferred accommodations on our most popular and unique itineraries. That’s because your Future Cruise Consultant has immediate access to Holland America Line’s reservation system and can view all availabilities on all sailings.

The time to reserve your desired stateroom, suite and dining preference is now. Your booking will be credited to, and finalized by, your preferred travel advisor.

We appreciate the relationship you have with your travel advisor and want to assure you they will be credited for bookings made onboard, just let us know. In addition, Holland America Line will honor any pricing or amenities that your travel advisor extends in addition to your onboard offers. To book, or for more information, simply visit your Future Cruise Consultant.

Guests can also enjoy fresh pastries and their favorite espresso drink provided by Torrefazione Italia. Additional highlights include: Internet stations, travel-related crossword puzzles and large jigsaw puzzle tables.

Religious Services:  In order to serve the spiritual needs of our guests, we provide the following services. Times and locations can be found listed in Navigator and the When & Where program.

• Catholic:  Mass is held daily.
• Interdenominational:  Each Sunday an interdenominational service is led by the congregation. A minister is on board during Grand Voyages and Legendary Voyages.
• Jewish:  A Sabbath Eve service is held each week. Anyone wishing to volunteer to lead this service should contact Guest Services. A rabbi is on board during Grand Voyages and Legendary Voyages.

Religious services may not be able to be held on embarkation/disembarkation day. Please contact Guest Services for more details.

Stateroom:  Your stateroom is furnished with a ship-to-shore telephone which enables you to easily call anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day (inquire with Guest Services for the latest pricing).

No-host mini-bars can be found in every stateroom onboard  Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Westerdam  and  Zuiderdam  and in the verandah stateroom category and higher for all other ships. Holland America Line does not recommend storing medication in any mini-bar. Please contact the ship’s Medical Center for any medication requiring refrigeration.

You’ll also find ample closet space, a safe in which to store your valuables and important documents, and a flat-screen television for viewing movies and onboard features. (BBC World News, ESPN, Fox News and MSNBC are available, subject to satellite transmission.)

Laundry:  For your comfort and convenience we offer full laundry and dry cleaning service on each ship in the Holland America Line fleet. In your stateroom you will find laundry bags and price lists conveniently located in your closet.

Please Note:  For safety reasons, travel irons, and electric water heaters/kettles may not be used in your stateroom.

Shipboard Meals

In addition to breakfast, lunch and a multi-course dinner, you can enjoy afternoon tea, hearty salads, comfort classics, global cuisine, an ice cream bar, hot hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hours, and the traditional late-night snack. Try the Dive In, located on the Lido Deck, featuring hamburgers and hot dogs. Complimentary In-Room Dining is available 24 hours a day. Casual dining is available in the Lido Market every night. Adjacent the Lido Market area, Canaletto restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine with tableside service for dinners. Luxury dining options in the Pinnacle Grill and Rudi's Sel De Mer, featuring the highest quality meat and fish, is available on all ships. Reservations may be made on board by contacting the restaurant manager. There is a nominal restaurant charge for the Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Nami Sushi and Tamarind (available on  Eurodam,   Nieuw Amsterdam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and the upcoming  Rotterdam ). Dining venues vary by ship.

Medical Facilities & Services

Each Holland America Line ship has an onboard Medical Center staffed by licensed physicians and critical care nurses. While not a full-service hospital, the Medical Center is well equipped to handle most emergencies, as well as routine medical procedures.

A customary fee will be charged for services and medications dispensed. Motion sickness medications are available for purchase onboard. If you become ill or injured during the voyage and your diagnostic and/or care requirements exceed the capabilities of the Medical Center, you will be transferred to medical facilities ashore. Please note that Medicare and many health insurance plans DO NOT cover the cost of medical care at sea, in foreign countries, or for air evacuation. For this reason, guests are encouraged to obtain travel medical insurance prior to travel.

If you have a chronic medical condition, please bring a recent report from your physician. The medical staff on board is not available for daily care, unless you are hospitalized in the Medical Center. You must be able to care for yourself. If you are unable to function independently with respect to eating, dressing or attending the ship’s safety briefings, you must bring a caregiver with you. Due to the limited medical facilities on board, we will not accept reservations for infants 6 months or younger for non- Transocean sailings, 12 months or younger for Transocean sailings at time cruise commences or women who will be 24 or more weeks pregnant at the time their cruise with Holland America Line concludes. If you are pregnant, please provide a medical note from your physician stating the expected due date and confirming your medical fitness to travel.

Keep medication close at hand in your purse or in a carry-on bag In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, please bring additional prescription medication for at least 2 weeks beyond the length of your travel itinerary along with a list of the prescription names, dosage amounts and times taken for all medications, because it may not be available on board or in the ports of call.

In addition to twice daily routine doctor’s hours, medical services are available 24 hours a day. Please dial 911 in an emergency. Unless otherwise posted, the Medical Center hours are as follows:

• Port Day: 8:00am - 10:00am | 4:30pm - 6:30pm
• Sea Day: 9:00am - 12:00nn | 3:00pm - 6:00pm
• Embarkation/Disembarkation Day: 8:00am - 9:00am | 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Infants & Pregnancy:  Because of the limited medical facilities, infants 6 months or younger at the time the cruise commences and women who will be 24 or more weeks pregnant during the course of their travel are not permitted to participate in the cruise. If you are pregnant, please provide a medical note from your physician stating your expected due date and medical fitness to travel. 

Travel Well®:  International travelers can take a number of simple steps to avoid potential health problems before and during travel while preserving their health and wellness during travel. In order to Travel Well®, international travelers should contact their physicians, local health departments, or a travel medicine clinic at least six to eight weeks before departure to receive current health information on the countries they plan to visit, to obtain vaccinations and preventative medications as indicated, and to address any other special needs. Washing hands frequently with soap and water will greatly reduce the risk of contracting illness and infections while traveling. In the absence of running water, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers to protect your health. This is especially important before and after meals, or whenever you are in contact with common surfaces (e.g. railings, buttons, door handles, countertops, faucets, etc.), after handling money and pens, and after using the restroom. Travelers’ diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness to affect travelers. Each year between 20%–50% of international travelers (an estimated 10 million people) develop diarrhea. The onset of TD usually occurs within the first week of travel but may occur at any time even after returning home. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to plan ahead and pack some anti-diarrheal medication with your other medications.

There are high-risk destinations such as developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, where chlorinated tap water is not available or where hygiene and sanitation are poor. Travelers should be cautioned that only the following may be safe to drink: hot brewed beverages, such as tea and coffee, made with boiled water; or canned or bottled beverages, including water, carbonated mineral water and soft drinks. Other consumables of concern may include ice made from local water, fresh uncooked salad greens or raw vegetables and sliced fruit that have been washed in local water, as well as dairy products such as milk, cream or ice cream products that have not been pasteurized.

Uncompromizing Commitment to Safety

We have a great responsibility to safeguard the well-being of people and the oceans we sail upon. Ongoing training and adherence to rigorous standards are vital to preserving and protecting our guests, our employees and the environment.

Safety:  For 140 years, the safety and security of our guests has been our highest priority. Every decision we make starts with that basic rule. Safety begins with the design of our ships.

Then we hire the right people, make sure they receive ongoing training, conduct drills and exercises to practice that training, and perform regular audits and inspections of our operations. We work within a comprehensive regulatory system in which multiple governmental authorities oversee every safety aspect of our operations. For more information about our safety and security procedures when you board the ship, see the “From the Captain” booklet in your stateroom.

Environment:  When it comes to protecting the environment in which we sail, our commitment is second to none. We ask that you refrain from pouring or discarding anything overboard, and that you dispose of solid waste in the appropriate containers indicated on board. We ask that you take the same simple efforts to conserve water and energy as you would at home, and that you refrain from introducing foreign objects or liquids to the toilets.

Together we can make a tremendous difference!

Safety Essentials

Upon embarkation, please make sure you watch the Safety Video on your stateroom/suite TV. The videos can be seen on the stateroom TV guest channel for 24 hours after departure. In addition to watching the Safety Video, please read the Safety information located on the back of your stateroom/suite door. It provides information on what to do in case of an emergency, as well as the routes to your Muster Station. We strongly suggest you take the opportunity to visit your Muster Station and familiarize yourself with the route. It also shows you how to correctly put on your lifejacket. Please practice wearing your life jacket. Special life jackets are available for children and infants. If these have not yet been provided, please ask your Stateroom Steward.

Smoking Policy

For the comfort of all of our guests, all staterooms (cabins), showrooms and most other indoor areas are designated non-smoking.  No smoking of any kind will be permitted on any stateroom verandah. Designated Smoking Areas

Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Westerdam, Zuiderdam

• Sea View Bar area
• Oak Room ( Noordam  only, including cigar and pipe smoking)

Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam

• Casino-smoking is allowed in designated areas for active players only and only when outside of 12NM from the Netherlands

Volendam, Zaandam

• Sports Deck, outside Crow's Nest

Cigar and pipe smoking is not allowed anywhere inside the ship; it is only permitted on the outside decks where smoking is otherwise allowed. Electronic cigarettes are not permitted in staterooms or in other public areas of the ship other than designated smoking areas. Any guest who smokes inside staterooms or on verandahs in violation of our policy will be charged a US$250 cleaning fee per day of violation and will risk being removed from the ship for repeated violations. Holland America Line reserves the right at any time to modify the smoking policy onboard or alter the locations where smoking is permissible.

Communication at Sea

Telephone: At some point in your travels you may experience an emergency. With this in mind, the following emergency phone numbers are available for your use. Representatives are on hand to assist you in any way they can, including assistance with travel delays and contacting loved ones. During our regular business hours, please call: 1-800-426-0327. Representatives are available from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (Pacific Time). Outside of these hours and during holidays, please call 1-800-628-4771 or 1-206-626-7382*. *This number is for emergency use only; please do not call unless you are experiencing an emergency of a critical nature. Additionally, you can call the ship directly from the shore. We recommend that you use this for the most critical emergencies only: Connecting to a Holland America Line vessel at sea is simple by using  Ship Dial Service . A credit card is required for all inbound phone calls to a ship. The rate is US$7.95 per minute and billing begins at the time specified. Please have the ship’s name, your party’s name and stateroom number before you call. Instructions:

• Dial 1-800-993-5483 (US). From outside the U.S. access 1-321- 837-6106.
• Listen to the announcement
• Listen to the menu and select the number that corresponds to the ship you are calling.
• If you receive a busy signal or message, please hang up quickly and try your call again.

Email and Internet: Guests can send and receive electronic mail (email) in real time via satellite link 24 hours a day (satellite conditions permitting). Internet is accessible from the comfort of workstations on board or from a personal laptop. If you use a personal email provider, make sure to bring your user id and password and email recipient addresses with you. Holland America Line Connect: Stay in touch with family and friends via satellite internet through Holland America Line Connect. Simply register through Holland America Line Navigator™, select “Paid Internet” and choose between a Voyage and a Daily plan. (Voyage plans cover your entire cruise and are available at a discounted rate. If you purchased a Daily plan and would like to upgrade to a Voyage plan, just return to Paid Internet and make your selection.). Want to read your email, catch up on the latest news and check your finances? Purchase a Surf plan, part of the Have It All fare. To use messaging and basic video apps, such as YouTube, Skype and Vimeo, choose the Premium plan. To stream from your content streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, Prime, Max and others, choose the Stream plan. Please contact Ship Services for further information. Mail: While onboard a Grand Voyage or Legendary Voyage, letters and postcards may be mailed from the ship while in various ports of call. Guests may buy stamps in port or purchase them from the Guest Services by charging their shipboard account. All mail is subject to local postal office procedures and rates in the port mailed. Mail is provided to the Port one hour before sailing. Mobile Phones: Holland America Line, through an agreement with Wireless Maritime Service, proudly offers an advanced roaming network onboard all Holland America ships allowing you to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages and access emails and surf the web while at sea using your own mobile phone and telephone number. The Wireless Maritime Service system is available for use when the ship is in international waters. When user’s phones pick the shipboard signal, their phone will usually display “cellularatsea”, “Ship Roam” or “901-18”. Depending on the handset and the carrier the user may be required to select “Roam” on the handset. For frequently asked questions about cell phone service on board, please go to www.wmsatsea.com. For questions about your service or about billing, please contact your home network customer service. AT&T Mobile Packages: Guests with AT&T service may choose from a selection of packages offering discounted rates for international calls, texts and data while on board. Choose from options for calling only, calling and messaging or calling, messaging and data. For complete details on plans and full terms and conditions, please visit www.att.com/cruiseships. To add a package, call 1-800-335-4685 or 1-916-843-4685 (A free call from AT&T wireless phone, including while onboard the ship).

Shipboard Account

All onboard purchases and services are charged to your account by using your stateroom keycard. Cash is not accepted for individual transactions, e.g. bars, the shops, spa, shore excursions. Cash is accepted in our casinos.

Registering a credit or debit card(s) (Visa®, Mastercard®, American Express®, and Discover®) as part of your pre-cruise check-in process activates your keycard. The day you board, Holland America Line places an initial hold on your credit or debit card for $30 per person per cruise day  Once you’ve spent the initial hold amount, we will authorize your card for the total of your onboard purchases to date plus an additional $30 per person per day for the remainder of your cruise. Please note that there may be multiple authorizations throughout your cruise, and that some banks may keep the hold in place for up to 30 days.

If you do not want to use a credit or debit card, on the day of boarding, you will need to visit Guest Services and deposit $30 cash per person per cruise day. Any excess deposit will be refunded to you at the end of the cruise. Traveler’s checks may be cashed at Guest Services. Personal checks are not accepted on board.

You may bring a pre-paid Gift/Rewards Card to pay for your onboard charges. Please bring the prepaid Gift card (with the Visa/Mastercard/American Express and Discover logo) to Guest Services for processing and do not register it online. The card can only be settled for the amount of the pre-paid Gift Card. We cannot process refunds on these cards.

At the end of your cruise, you will be able to retrieve a final statement from Navigator, and your card will be charged only for the actual amount of your purchases. Refunds for purchases of onboard products and services will be credited to your onboard account whether purchased prior to or during your cruise. The final amount billed may take up to 24-hours following disembarkation. For questions about how long the hold remains in effect or how your available credit is affected, please contact your card issuer.

Applies to all guests 18 years of age and over.

Please Note:  There is not an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) available on board.

Currency Exchange

For your convenience, foreign currency exchange services are available at Guest Services. The U.S. dollar is the only currency accepted on board Holland America Line ships. We will accept U.S. traveler’s checks. In most ports of call, you may easily exchange U.S. dollars into the local currency. Banks, airports and major hotels often offer this service. In many countries, you can also use your ATM card to obtain local currency. Most locations will accept major credit cards, and some will accept U.S. dollars. If you choose to use U.S. dollars, Holland America Line recommends that you carry smaller denominations such as ones, fives, tens and twenties.

Cash Advance:  Cash advances are available at the Guest Services. All cash advances are subject to restrictions. A 3% service fee will be added to your onboard account for all cash advances.

Is There A Crew Appreciation Charge (Gratuity/Tip)?

Crew Appreciation is a daily (adjustable) amount added to your onboard account and pooled in order to recognize the many team members throughout our fleet who contribute to the guest experience. For all sailings departing prior to February 14, 2024 as well as the 2024 Grand World Voyage and the 2024 Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage, the daily Crew Appreciation is $16.00* per guest per day for non-suite stateroom guests and $17.50* per guest per day for suite guests. For sailings departing on or after February 14, 2024, the daily Crew Appreciation is $17.00* per guest per day for non-suite stateroom guests and $19.00* per guest per day for suite guests. The Crew Appreciation charge is paid to Holland America Line team members and represents an important part of their compensation. An 18% service charge is automatically applied to all beverage purchases, bar retail items, specialty restaurant cover charges, all for-purchase a la carte menu items, and all Spa & Salon services. Local sales taxes are applied where required.

*The charges are subject to change without notice.

Luggage Services

For your convenience Holland America Line has partnered with two luggage transport services for your convenience. Luggage Direct and Luggage Forward® two different services offering a variety of services with the sole purpose of easing your travel! By taking the handling of your luggage out of the equation you will proceed much quicker through the check-in process and save a considerable amount of time.

1.  Luggage Forward:  Luggage Forward is a worldwide door-to- door service allowing you to have your bags picked up at your home and delivered to your stateroom. Upon disembarkation, your bags are delivered directly back home.

Luggage Forward offers:

• International service
• Ability to bypass unpredictable checked baggage fees
• No risk of airlines losing luggage
• Full money back plus $500 on-time guarantee

Book online at  luggageforward.com/hollandamerica   or call Luggage Forward directly. From the U.S. dial 1-877-466-2247, from the UK dial +44-2033-754769 or +1-617-482-1100 if calling from any other location.

2.  Luggage Direct: Luggage Direct offers you the opportunity to receive your airline boarding passes and check your luggage in to your flight while still onboard your Holland America Line ship. Our TSA-approved partners will take your luggage directly from the ship and deliver it to your outbound aircraft. You will claim your luggage when you arrive at your final airport destination.

If you want to make your trip home even easier, sign up for Bags VIP luggage delivery and eliminate having to deal with your luggage completely. (See section for Bags VIP Luggage Delivery below for details.)

Luggage Direct offers:

• Ability to enjoy your final hours in port at your leisure without having to stand in line at the airport.
• Avoid lines at disembarkation as you are invited to be the first to disembark
• No need to locate your luggage or wait for a porters assistance in the terminal
• Avoid lines at the airport – with boarding pass in hand and no luggage to check you can proceed directly to Security.
• Fort Lauderdale

For more information, or to sign up go to  maketraveleasier.com/Holland   or call 1-877-847-0045 to speak to one of our customer service representatives.

Please note the following general information about Luggage Direct:

• Cost is US$25.00 per person (subject to change)
• Airline-assessed baggage fees will be applied to guest’s onboard account when applicable as per your airlines rules.
• Guests may check no more than 3 pieces of luggage per person.
• Upgrade requests, seat assignment changes, and flight changes cannot be accommodated onboard.

Restrictions for each homeport city include participating airlines, earliest and latest flight times, and citizenship requirements.

Disembarkation

Disembarkation procedures.

In order to coordinate transfers and luggage handling with post- cruise arrangements, a disembarkation form will be distributed to guests for whom we have no disembarkation information or guests for whom we have no flight schedule. Please fill out the form and return it to the Guest Services as soon as possible.

We will provide disembarkation information shortly before the end of your cruise, which will outline important procedures regarding customs formalities, luggage handling, travel arrangements, disembarkation and other information.

Please Note:  For those without pre-arrangements we recommend purchasing a transfer onboard before disembarking. In many ports taxi lines can be long and distances to private transportation can be lengthy.

On the last night of your cruise you will need to place your baggage outside your stateroom before you retire. Please do not place your baggage over the emergency floor lighting. Please make sure that the appropriate baggage tags are affixed to your baggage, because the tags include your departing flight information.

As previously mentioned in the BAGGAGE POLICIES & PACKING ADVICE section,  you should not place valuables in your tagged luggage . Holland America Line recommends that each guest keep all personal identification, electronic airline tickets, customs forms, medications and other important items along with the clothes and shoes he or she intends to wear the last day.  Place them in a carry-on bag or keep them with you so you can access them easily. Please remember that important items such as perishables, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry, gold, silver or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments, records or other valuable or business documents, laptop computers, cellular telephones, cameras, or other video or electronic equipment, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, binoculars, film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes or CDs should not be placed in the baggage you placed outside your stateroom. Also, you will need your ship card when you disembark. You should have it available at the gangway when disembarking so please  DO NOT  pack it in your tagged luggage.

On the morning of disembarkation, guests with no credit card payment need to settle their onboard account on the morning of disembarkation. Promotional credits are nonrefundable. Cash deposits can be made on the last day of the cruise.

The ship’s estimated arrival time at the port of disembarkation is shown on your cruise itinerary. Generally, the ship is subject to certain government procedural requirements upon arrival. Once completed, all guests will be allowed to disembark.

Disembarkation is usually completed within two to four hours after the ship’s arrival. All guests are required to disembark the ship at this time. Outbound flights should be scheduled with plenty of time for transfers from the ship to the airport. The amount of time you allow to transfer from the ship to the airport will depend on the disembarkation port.

Please Note:  Please read the LUGGAGE DIRECT SERVICE section, for more detailed information. The Luggage Direct Service is the most relaxing and hassle free disembarkation Holland America Line offers.

Still have questions? Visit our  Frequently Asked Questions .

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Cruise 101: Getting a Passport for Your Cruise

One of the greatest things about cruising is that it offers a chance for international travel, without many of the headaches. There’s no need to change currencies. There’s no need to learn another language (English is spoken in ports). And there is no need to get a passport.

That’s right. Most trips from U.S. ports do not require a passport. (We’ll explain more in a moment.)

But despite not requiring a passport, it is something that you should have. There are simply too many situations that may arise that would be more difficult to deal with if you don’t have one.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to passports and cruising. We’ll answer some of the biggest questions and concerns regarding getting your passport and explain everything in simple detail for first-time cruisers.

Can I Cruise Without a Passport?

First things first. Most people can cruise without needing a passport. If you are sailing a “closed loop” cruise — meaning you depart a U.S. port and return to that port to disembark — then you don’t need a passport.

Under regulations called the “Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative” (WHTI), passengers on these closed-loop cruises only need a birth certificate and government ID to set sail. Here’s the official language from the Customs and Border Patrol website :

“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. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.”

As we said, this covers most cruises. What it doesn’t cover is if you travel to a country that requires a passport (most Caribbean ports do not) or if you are not sailing on a loop, such as sailing from Miami and departing in Puerto Rico.

Why You Should Get a Passport For Your Cruise

The obvious reasons for having a passport are if you are not sailing on a closed-loop cruise or heading to a port that requires it.

But apart from that, you should view a passport as an insurance policy. The closed-loop rule only works if you depart and arrive back at the same port. If you accidentally miss the ship or are hurt/sick on your trip and can’t continue, then having a passport is a lifesaver.

In these cases, you’ll have to jump through hoops to try to fly back home later without a passport. Having one ensures that even if something unexpected happens, then you have the proper documentation to move about the country and re-enter the United States by land, sea, or air.

It also helps to prove your identity if there is a mishap while on shore. If you are in an accident or have any other interaction with police while in a port of call, they will likely ask for your passport. Having one takes out any questions that can arise regarding your identity and legality of being in the port of call.

Should I Get a Passport Book, Card, or Both for a Cruise?

Getting a passport isn’t that difficult, but it can be a bit of a hassle as there are several steps to take.

To start, you will need to know whether you want a passport book, passport card, or both. The passport book is the regular passport that you’ve seen before. It has pages in the back that are stamped upon arrival in a country. The passport card is like a driver’s license.

While the book is valid for entering most countries by any means of travel (air, sea, or land), the passport card is only valid for only return to the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

Given that the passport card is cheaper and covers the Caribbean, many people opt for it. However, we would suggest getting the book instead. This gives you coverage to more countries, as well as covers you if you have to fly home from the U.S. instead of returning by ship. (For example, if you had to fly home mid-cruise for an emergency.)

You can also get both the passport book and card for an extra fee.

Applying for a Passport

Once you decide which type of passport you’d like, you’ll need to gather the appropriate documents.

First, you will need evidence of your U.S. citizenship . This should be an original or certified copy. No photocopies or notarized copies are accepted. This evidence include ONE of the following:

• Fully-valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements: Issued by the city, county, or state of birth Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth Lists your parent(s)’ full names Has the date filed with registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth) Has the registrar’s signature Has the seal of the issuing authority
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Citizenship

Second, you will need to submit a photocopy of your citizenship evidence . (The government will inspect the original document and return it to you, keeping the photocopy.) Just make a simple one-sided, black and white photocopy of your document on standard paper.

Third, you need a photo ID from a government agency . This is most likely a driver’s license or a government-issued ID card. If you have a passport (even if expired), that works as well.

Fourth, you will need a photocopy of the front and back of the ID you plan to show the passport office.

Fifth, you need to fill out Form DS-11 (if this is your first passport) . Take note to fill it out but do not sign until in front of the passport agent.

Finally, you’ll need to take passport photos . You can take photos at tons of places, from grocery stores to drug stores to many mail centers. Simply give the places a call to see if they offer the service. Most charge a nominal fee of $5-7.

Once you have all your documentation, then you’ll need to submit it in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility . These facilities are typically local post offices. You can search for your nearest facility here .

Keep in mind that some facilities are by appointment only. You can see their hours of operation on the search results.

The following video helps explain the process:

https://youtu.be/SDeJqRyL3JY

How Much Does Getting a Passport for a Cruise Cost?

First-time passport books costs $110, plus a $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $135 .

Passport cards cost $30, plus the $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $55 .

If you want both the book and the card, it’s $140, plus the $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $165 .

Passports are valid for 10 years

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Passport? Can I Get It Faster?

Standard processing time for a passport takes 4-6 weeks. If that cuts it too close to your cruise date, there are ways to speed up the process.

First, you can simply pay for expedited processing. This is an extra $60 charge and your passport will process in 2-3 weeks.

Need it even sooner? You can apply for your passport at a passport agency , located in major cities around the country. To apply here, you need to setup an appointment, pay the expedited fee, and have proof of immediate travel. Applying for your passport with this method takes approximately 8 days.

If you need a passport immediately, most medium to large cities will have businesses that expedite the process — some claiming within 2-3 days. Simply search for your city name plus “passport” in Google to find companies in your area that offer expedited service.

Resources: State Department Passport Website

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The Essential Guide to U.S. Passport Cards: How to Apply and FAQs

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

For U.S. citizens looking to travel internationally by land or by sea, a U.S. passport card is a great option to consider.

The US passport card is smaller, cheaper, and more convenient than a passport book. That said, it is not for everyone. It only works for entry into certain countries via sea or land crossings.

These countries include:

• Caribbean countries

Please note that the Passport Card cannot be used for international air travel.

So, if you are planning to visit one of these destinations and do not have a valid U.S. passport already, a passport card can be a better option than a standard passport book.

Both a passport card and passport book can serve as identification that border agents can accept as proof of your American citizenship status.

So, who is it for? How do you get one? What does the card look like?

We answer these and other frequently asked questions below so you can make the best decision for your travel needs.

What is a passport card?

A passport card works the same way as the book version. It is issued by the Department of State and proves both your United States citizenship and your identity. It has a unique passport card number just like a standard book-style passport does. It features the same style photo as a traditional passport book. The cards also have expiration dates 10 years after issuance (or 5 years for minors) just like the books do.

The card is a valid passport, but it is similar in size to a credit card or driver's license. It has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your identifying details. When a customs official scans your card, the RFID chip transmits this information.

What does the passport card look like?

The Differences Between a Passport Book and a Passport Card

Both passport cards and passport books serve the same purpose: proving your U.S. citizenship and identity.

All American citizens are required to present a valid passport to exit and re-enter the United States. A passport is used for international travel when entering, exiting, and traveling between foreign countries.

While there are similarities between the two, the table below shows the differences between a passport card and a passport book.

The main differences are:

• Size - The passport card is about the same size as a credit or debit card. Its smaller size makes it more convenient to carry than the larger book.
• Cost - It is cheaper to get passport cards than passport books. Choosing a card can be a good way to save money.
• No stamps - Unlike a traditional passport book, there is no place on the card for the colorful immigration stamps many countries issue when you go through customs.

However, a passport book is valid for all types of travel to any destination. It can be used for international air travel, land border crossings, and at international sea ports of entry.

How to Apply for a Passport Card

You apply for both a passport card and passport book using the same application form (you are not required to get both).

The process looks differently depending on whether or not you already have a valid passport book.

• If you do not already have a valid passport book, Follow this step-by-step guide to getting a new passport .
• If you do already have a valid passport book, you follow this step-by-step guide for applying for a passport renewal .

In either scenario, you can still use the help of a registered passport expediter to simplify and speed up the application timeline for your passport card.

Important Note: However you apply, be sure to check the appropriate box for a passport card on the DS-11 application form (for those applying as first-time applicants) or the DS-82 form if you are renewing an existing card or book by mail.

Passport Card Processing Times

There is no significant difference in processing time for a passport card versus a passport book.

Both can be expedited . However, some passport agencies do not expedite passport cards.

Routine processing currently takes 6 to 8 weeks .

Expedited processing currently takes 2 to 3 weeks .

If you need a passport card quickly, a reputable registered passport expediter can submit your application on your behalf. This can ensure the fastest possible processing times for your passport card and/or book application. In some cases, you can get your new card or book in as few as 24 hours .

For more on passport expediters, who they are, what they do, and how they can help you with your travel document needs, check out our Ultimate Guide to Passport Expeditors .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

The Purpose of a U.S. Passport Card

Any American citizen can apply for a passport card. But, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone with international travel plans.

The purpose of the card is to make it easier for Americans who have to cross land or sea borders often. For example, many people living in border communities must cross a border frequently for work, shopping, or leisure. They must show a proper credential each time they cross. A plastic card is sturdier and easier to carry than a paper passport book.

Know that citizens still need a passport book to travel outside of North America or fly abroad. There is a good reason for this. Passport books are the international gold standard for travel ID. As such, the card was never meant to replace the book. The card is simply a convenient tool more suitable for specific use cases.

The Pros and Cons of Passport Cards

• Convenience - It's the same size as a credit card, so it fits conveniently in your wallet.
• Cost - Both the initial cost and renewal costs are lower than a passport book.
• Travel - It can be used for land or sea travel to some of the most popular destinations for Americans traveling abroad: Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
• Identification - It can serve as an identity proof for children and non-drivers.
• Air Travel - You cannot use it for international air travel.
• Limited Use - It cannot be used to acquire travel visas or visit countries beyond those listed above.
• Limited Recognition - Not all countries recognize the passport card as an identifying document, as it is a relatively new form of identification.

Passport Card FAQs

Should you choose a passport card or a passport book.

Simply put, applying for a passport card only makes sense if you meet the following criteria:

• You do not plan to leave or enter the United States by air.
• You only plan to travel to Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, and/or the Caribbean (and no other countries).
• Both of the above apply to your anticipated plans for the next 10 years.

The card is a convenient option for those who live near U.S. borders and frequently use land border crossings for work or pleasure. In these cases, being able to keep a durable international travel credential in your wallet or purse - just as you would your license or state-issued ID - makes sense. If you plan on using a card often enough that it must always be on your person, it is worth considering.

For everyone else, the alternative is the traditional U.S. passport book. The book version comes in both a standard, 24-page version and a bigger, 52-page version for those who travel a lot.

Where can a U.S. citizen apply for a passport card?

If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you can do so at one of the 8,400 Passport Application Acceptance Facilities across the country. Most facilities require an appointment and many have limited spots available.

What documents will I need in order to apply for a passport card?

The passport card is a valid passport that is proof of the identity of the bearer. As such, the passport book and passport card follow the same application rules.

Applicants must provide documents that attest to their U.S. citizenship. The most common examples of acceptable documentation include:

A completed application and updated passport photo are also required.

If you already have a traditional passport book and you are eligible to submit Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card as a Renewal by Mail - even if it is your first passport card!

How much does a passport card cost?

The first card for an adult costs $65, and $50 for any minor under the age of 16. This includes the $35 execution fee. These fees can be paid by money order or check. Cash and credit card payments are not accepted.

Adults who received their most recently issued passport when they were age 16 or older can apply for the card at a cost of $30, as long as their passport is still valid or has expired no more than 5 years ago.

How long does it take to receive your passport card?

This process can take from weeks to months, depending on the demand at the time that you apply.

Using first class mail or similarly fast, reliable shipping options can help reduce your turnaround time by several days.

Can a passport card be renewed?

Yes. You can renew a passport card by following the same steps you would follow to renew a passport book .

Similarly, you also have the ability to rush your passport card renewal in the same ways that you would expedite a passport book renewal.

How can a passport card application be expedited?

You can request expedited passport service when you submit the application. There is an extra fee of $60 for this service. Expedited processing can take up to 2 to 3 weeks by mail. This can save you several weeks compared to the standard wait time, but it is still a long wait for those who need to travel soon.

Applicants who need to get one quickly, but are unable to visit a regional passport agency in person, can authorize a registered expediter to submit the passport application for them. Be sure to check out our directory of the top passport expeditors for our most up-to-date recommendations.

Can a valid passport card be used as a Real ID?

How many passport cards have been issued.

This makes it a much stronger form of personal identification than some driver's licenses or other forms of state issued id.

The passport card has only been around since July 14, 2008. Only 189,560 cards were issued that year.

Just a few years later, the number of passport cards issued rose to over one million. Due to this growth, more and more questions are sent to us about this travel document.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we have received over the last 15+ years from our readers.

Readers' FAQs About Passport Cards

Click the links below to see the answers to questions that other visitors have submitted.

Will a passport card be sufficient for a child or adult traveling to Bahamas from the U.S.   Question: If we are traveling to Bahamas from the US, will a passport card work fine for that, and will it last for 5 years like other passports do?

Should I get a passport card for my children instead of a book when traveling on a cruise to Bahamas?   Question: We are traveling with a 4 and 2 year old on a Disney cruise. We fly from Maryland to Florida where we board our ship and sail to the Bahamas...

Passport Card in addition to Passport Book   Question: If my US passport book does not expire for 6 more years, can I complete the DS-82 for a card without renewing my passport book?

My son lost his passport card--NOT his passport. What do we need to do?   Question: My 12 year old son lost his wallet and it contained his passport card, with the passport number on it. He DID NOT lose his passport...

Can I get a passport card for my honeymoon so I don't have to pay the extra cost of a passport book?   Question: My fiance and I are planning a honeymoon, but its based on whether we will have a passport. I'd rather pay the $55 pp for the passport card ...

I have a passport card but need a passport book to travel to Barbados.   Question: I currently have a passport card that was issued in June 2009. I will be needing to get a passport book within the next couple of years so ...

Can you use the passport card instead of the passport book when traveling to Bahamas?   Question: Travel from metro Detroit to Bahamas do I need a book passport or card passport?

Can I renew a passport book that is not expired for a passport card and change the name?   Question: I will be traveling this Feb. 2011 to Mexico (cruise) and would prefer to renew my passport just in case of an emergency. I have two children...

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

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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?

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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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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Passport Book vs. Card: 4 Key Differences

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Table of Contents

About the passport book

About the passport card, how a passport book and passport card differ, when to get both, if you're choosing between the passport card and passport book.

For international travel, the U.S. Department of State issues two types of official government documents: the passport book and the passport card.

The main difference between a passport card and book boils down to where you can use them, what methods of transit are eligible and the cost.

It’s important to learn the difference between the two so you can choose more confidently if one (or both) are right for you.

A passport book is a small booklet available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals that can be used for international travel by air, sea or land. For travelers age 16 or older at the date of issue, the books are valid for 10 years. Younger travelers are given passports that are valid for five years.

Each passport book is assigned a unique number. The first page of a passport contains your photo and personal information, including your full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, sex, the passport issue date and passport expiration date. The rest of the book is filled with blank pages for immigration stamps and visas. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you might be required to have two to four blank visa pages.

The standard passport book is 28 pages; however, you can request a 52-page book if you anticipate frequent international travel.

Since 2007, only electronic passports have been issued. These books contain an electronic chip that stores the information on the first page, a biometric identifier of your passport photo, a chip identification number and a digital signature.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

The passport card is also available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals, but can only be used for foreign border entry by land and sea — and only in specific places. Regardless of the country you’re visiting, it’s not an accepted form of ID for international air travel. Passport cards are valid for the same durations as passport books.

The passport card fits a standard wallet card slot and contains your photo, full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, issue and expiration dates, plus your unique passport card number.

The card also has built-in Radio Frequency Identification which can be used in Ready Lanes at Canadian and Mexican land borders for faster entry.

» Learn more: How to save on road trips

1. Border entry method

The biggest difference between a passport book and passport card is the methods of travel that are eligible. While passport books can be used for all entry methods into an international country — whether air, land or sea — passport cards are limited to travel through land and sea borders only.

» Learn more: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which is right for you?

2. Travel destination

Another difference between a passport book and passport card is which countries each can be used to enter.

There are no limitations for destinations where you can use your passport book. Passport cards, however, can only be used going through a land border or seaport in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. For example, if you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise, you’ll need to use a passport book. The card isn’t valid for seaport entry in Europe.

» Learn more: The complete guide to a U.S.-Canada border crossing

3. Format and size

Passport books and passport cards have physical differences. Passport books are 3.5-by-5-inch booklets with blank pages for foreign immigration stamps and visas. Although they’re pocket-sized, passport books are bulkier than passport cards, which are the size of a credit card or driver’s license.

» Learn more: How to get your first passport

Passport books are more expensive than cards. Regardless of document type, all first-time applicants must pay a $35 acceptance fee, which is included in the price.

Passport books for first-time applicants cost:

For adults (16 and older): $165.

For children (15 and under): $135.

The cost difference is stark compared to passport cards for first-time applicants:

For adults (16 and older): $65.

For children (15 and under): $50.

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewals of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and $30 to renew an adult passport card.

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of how and where you’re traveling. You have the option to purchase a passport book and card in one application, and there are a couple of scenarios when having both passport types might be convenient, like:

If you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. In that case, having a passport card for regular land-based trips would be useful. You can keep your passport book handy for international air travel.

If you don’t have a Real ID , which will be required for domestic air travel beginning in 2025. A U.S. passport — book or card — is accepted as an alternative to the Real ID, but the card is more convenient to carry around. If you’re flying domestically without a Real ID, you'll be able to use a passport card for air travel within the 50 states and reserve your passport book for international travel.

If you choose to apply for both passport options in one application rather than applying for them separately, you’ll save $35 since you’ll only pay one acceptance fee.

» Learn more: What flyers need to know about REAL ID for travel this fall and beyond

Deciding between a passport book and a passport card can feel like a difficult choice considering the cost difference and the turnaround time to get your passport application processed.

When choosing which option is best for you, consider the type of travel you’re most likely to do over the next few years. If you’re unsure about your future travel needs, a passport book might be your best option.

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Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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General Questions

Children (under 16), social security number requirement, u.s. passport card, 1. i'm renewing my passport. do i get the old one back will i get a new passport number.

Yes. In most cases when you renew by mail, we will return the old passport to you. The old passport may not arrive for up to 8 weeks after you receive your new passport. 

If your old passport has a valid visa, you can still use the valid visa. You must travel with both your new and old passport in this case.

The number on your new passport will be different from the number on your previous passport.

If you have Global Entry, update your  Trusted Traveler account  with your new passport information. 

2. My address changed. Do I need to update my passport?

Do not contact us if your address changed  after  you receive your passport.

Contact us only if your mailing address changed while you are waiting for your passport.

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing)

3. I already applied and need my passport sooner than I thought. What can I do?

Call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing). You’ll need either your application number or your last name and date of birth.

• Get expedited service for $60. 
• Get 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport book for $19.53. One-to-two day delivery is not available for passport cards. We only send cards via First Class Mail.

4. Do I need 6 months of validity on my passport to travel?

If you are age 16 or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. Your child's passport (age 0-15) is valid for 5 years.

Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip . Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. 

Check our  Country Information page  to learn how long your passport needs to be valid.  

To learn about returning to the United States after your travel, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's website .

5. How long does it take to get a passport?

Go to our  Processing Times page  for more information.

6. How will you send my passport and supporting documents?

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

7. I am recently married or divorced. How do I change my name on my passport?

For more information, go to our  Change or Correct a Passport page . 

If you are changing your name within one year of the date your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-5504 .   

If you are changing your name over a year after your passport was issued, complete  Form DS-82 . 

8. I am traveling very soon. How do I get a passport quickly?

Go to our  Get My Passport Fast page  for information on expediting your application, or making an appointment at a passport agency or center.

If you have a life-or-death emergency, go to our  Life-or-Death Emergency page  to see if you qualify for an appointment. 

9. How much does a U.S. passport cost?

The cost of your passport depends on how fast you need it, and if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents.

Go to our  Passport Fees page  for more information on how much to pay, and what forms of payment we accept. 

10. How do I get the status of my application?

Enroll in emails using the  Online Passport Status System . Learn about what each update means on our Application Status webpage .

11. My passport has already been issued and mailed to me, but I have not received it. What do I do?

If you have waited over two weeks since we mailed your passport, call us at  1-877-487-2778  (or  1-888-874-7793  if you are deaf or hard of hearing).

We will help you complete a special form (known as the  DS-86 form ) which is a signed statement that you didn't receive your U.S. passport.

You must complete the DS-86 form within 90 days of the date we issued your passport. After 90 days, you must reapply and pay all fees, by law.

12. My passport has been damaged. Can I continue to use this passport?

If your passport is damaged, apply for a new passport. Replace your passport if there is:

• Water damage
• A significant tear
• Unofficial markings on the data page
• Missing visa pages (torn out)
• A hole punch

Do not replace your passport if there is normal "wear and tear" which includes:

• The bend of a passport after being carried in your back pocket
• Fanning of the visa pages after lots of opening and closing

If you need to replace your damaged passport, submit:

• The damaged passport;
• A signed statement explaining the damaged or mutilated condition of your passport book and/or card; 
• Form DS-11  (including supporting documents, photo, and fees)

13. How many blank visa pages do I need, and can I add pages to my passport book?

Some countries require that your passport has two to four blank visa or stamp pages. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.

You cannot add visa pages to a current passport book. If you need more pages, you must renew your passport book.

On your passport form, select the option for a "large book" so you can get a passport book with extra visa pages. 

14. Can I use a passport to fly in the United States?

Yes. The U.S. passport book and passport card are alternatives to a state-issued REAL ID and can be used for domestic flights. 

According to the  Department for Homeland Security , residents of all states will soon have to use a Real ID compliant ID for domestic air travel. Not sure if your state’s driver’s license and ID are Real ID compliant? Check  your state’s status . For a complete list of acceptable forms of identification to fly in the United States, visit REAL ID . 

15. Can I get a second passport book?

Yes, but only if you have a valid U.S. passport book and you meet several  requirements. Learn more to see if you are eligible .

16. I got a letter in the mail or an email about my application. What should I do?

We sent you a letter or email because we need more information from you to continue processing your passport. Go to our  Respond to a Letter or Email page  for more information.

17. Who should have a valid U.S. passport?

You should have a U.S. passport if: 

• You have family living or traveling abroad,
• You are thinking about a vacation abroad, or
• You have a job that could require international travel.

18. My new passport book has a QR code sticker on the back. What is it for?

These stickers give you easy access to important passport and travel information on our website.

• If you scan the code using your mobile device, it will link you to our website. If you do not wish to scan the code, you can also access the information on our  After I Get My Passport page .
• Is the same on all passport books
• Does not have personally identifiable information, and
• Does not change the way border officials and airlines review your document.
• We are not placing QR code stickers on passport cards. 
• You may remove the sticker. We recommend keeping it on so you have quick and easy access to our website.

2. What should I do if one parent or guardian cannot apply in person?

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

3. Can I renew my child's passport?

No. You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82. If your child is under age 16 , your child must appear in person with you and the child's other parent or guardian. You must submit your child's Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility, or a passport agency or center.

1. Do I have to provide my social security number on my passport application?

Yes. Federal law requires that you provide your social security number, if you have one.

If you do not provide the information, your passport application will be delayed and your application may be denied. You will also be subject to a $500 penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service. ( 26 U.S.C. 6039E ). 

Contact the  Social Security Administration  for information about getting a social security number and card.

2. What if I or my children don’t have a social security number?

Submit a signed and dated statement. You must include the statement with the application, and include this text:

“I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct:  I (or my child) have never been issued a social security number by the Social Security Administration.”

1. What is the passport card?

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is  not valid for international travel by air  and is cheaper than the passport book.

You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

2. How do I apply for a passport card?

You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using the same application. When completing your form, let us know if you would like to apply for one or both documents. 

If you're renewing both your passport book and passport card, you must provide both documents. If you can submit a passport book, but you lost your passport card, you cannot renew the passport card using Form DS-82.

3. Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes. If you already have a passport book and   you are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card by mail as a "renewal" even if it is your first passport card.

You can do the same and apply for your first passport book by mail as a "renewal" if you already have a passport card.

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What Is a US Passport Card, and How Can You Get One?

The US passport card is a credit card-sized identification document. It was designed for people who travel frequently between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean by land or sea. The passport card contains a radio frequency identification chip as well as the traditional photograph and personal information found in a passport book. The chip links your passport card to records stored in government databases. It does not contain any of your personal information.

Where Can I Travel With My Passport Card?

You can use your passport card for travel by land or sea to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. You cannot use the passport card for international air travel , nor can you use it for travel to other international destinations. If you plan to travel by air or wish to visit a country other than Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or one of the other Caribbean island nations, you should apply for a passport book instead.

How Much Does a Passport Card Cost?

A passport card is less expensive than a traditional passport book. Your first passport card will cost $65 ($50 for children under 16) and will be valid for ten years (five years for children). Renewals cost $30. A traditional passport book costs $145; renewals cost $110.

Can I Carry Both Types of Passports?

Yes. Even better, if you already hold a valid US passport that was issued after you turned 16, you can apply for a passport card as a mail-in renewal and pay only the $30 renewal fee.

How Do I Apply for My Passport Card?

First-time passport card applicants who do not have a passport book (traditional passport) must go in person to a passport application facility , such as a post office or courthouse, and submit a completed passport application form, proof of US citizenship, one passport photo and the required fee.

You may need to make an appointment to apply for your passport card. Contact your chosen passport acceptance facility for location-specific information and appointment availability. When you apply for your passport cards, you will need to give the passport official the documents you submit as proof of citizenship, but they will be returned to you separately by mail after your passport has been issued.

You can have passport photos taken at many "big box" stores, pharmacies, AAA offices and photo studios. Some post offices also offer this service. Do not wear your glasses when posing for your passport photo. If you normally wear a hat or head covering for medical or religious purposes, you may do so for your passport photo, but you must submit a statement with your passport card application detailing the reasons for wearing it. The statement must be signed by you if you wear a hat or head covering for religious reasons. Your doctor must sign the statement if you wear a hat or head covering for medical reasons.

You may also take your own passport photo. The requirements for passport photos are quite specific. You can find a list of passport photo requirements, tips for taking your own passport photo and a photo sizing tool on the State Department's "Photo Requirements" web page.

If you choose not to provide your Social Security number on your application and you live outside the US, the IRS can fine you $500.

Can I Track My Passport Card Application Status?

Yes! The State Department now offers online passport application tracking. You will need to provide your last name, birth date, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

When Will I Receive My Passport Card?

You will receive your passport card in six to eight weeks, not counting mailing time. Try to apply for your card at least ten weeks before your scheduled departure date to allow for unexpected delays in processing.

You may apply for expedited processing if you are willing to pay an additional $60 for that service. Typically, expedited passport applications are processed in two to three weeks. Overnight delivery is not available for passport cards. You will receive your passport card via first class mail.

Travelers who need passport cards in less than two weeks must make an appointment at one of the 13 Regional Passport Agency offices to submit their applications and payment in person. Call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778 or use NPIC's online passport appointment system to schedule your appointment.

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What's the difference between a passport book and passport card?

Editor's Note

If you've ever applied for or renewed a U.S. passport , you may have noticed the option to purchase both a passport book and a passport card.

Although both serve as proof of your U.S. citizenship and identity, they are used for different travel purposes.

Here's all you need to know about the differences between a passport book and a passport card, as well as which one you should get.

What is a passport book?

A passport book is likely the document travelers are most familiar with, as it's used for international travel to and from the U.S., including by air, sea or land.

All U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are eligible for a U.S. passport book.

Passport books contain identifying details, including your full name, nationality, date and place of birth, sex, place of issuance, birthplace, issuance and expiration dates, and an alphanumeric eight-digit passport number.

Biometric passport books come in the form of a booklet with a navy blue cover containing 28 pages, where border agents stamp each time you cross into a new country. Should you ever receive a visa to enter a country, that information will also be documented on those pages.

For travelers aged 16 or older at the date of issue, passport books are valid for 10 years. Otherwise, they're valid for five years , and these travelers must renew their passports at that time.

What is a passport card?

Unlike passport books, a passport card is wallet-sized, similar to the size of a driver's license. Passport cards can be used for land and sea entry to the U.S. from Canada , Mexico , Bermuda and the Caribbean .

These contain almost identical information as passport books, specifically your full name, nationality, date/place of birth, sex, issue and expiration dates, plus a unique passport card number.

All U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are eligible for a U.S. passport card.

Unlike passport books, a passport card can be used in Ready Lanes in Canada and Mexico, which provide expedited vehicle and pedestrian border entry for approved users by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Like passport books, passport cards are also valid for 10 years for travelers aged 16 and older, and five years for those under age 16 at the time of issuance.

Differences between the passport book and passport card

The passport book is larger than a passport card, measuring 5 inches by 3.5 inches when closed. The passport card is the size of a standard credit card.

Overall, obtaining a U.S. passport book is much more expensive, at $165 for first-time applicants aged 16 and older, $135 for those under 16 and $130 for those who renew their passport book by mail, regardless of age.

It only costs first-time applicants aged 16 and older $65 to get a passport card, while it's $50 for younger applicants. Passport cards are renewable by mail for just $30.

Both serve as acceptable alternatives to a state-issued ID (driver's license) for U.S. citizenship identification for travel and other purposes. However, only passport books are valid for international air travel.

Can I have both a passport book and a card?

You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time, either in person using Form DS-11 or via mail using Form DS-82 , simply by checking the appropriate box at the top of the form indicating that you would like to apply for both products. You cannot renew one without the other.

If you have a passport book and are eligible for mail renewal, you can also apply for a passport card renewal via mail, even if it is your first passport card.

For eligibility rules regarding mail renewal, see here .

Which should I get?

You can technically obtain both documents. However, it doesn't make sense to pay for both when a U.S. passport book grants international air, land and sea access to the U.S. from all destinations the passport card does.

Having said that, you may want to consider also applying for a passport card if you frequently travel both by air and land, as a passport card is a smaller document to travel with and potentially more convenient than carrying a traditional passport book.

Either way, both a passport book and card are accepted as forms of Real ID . As a reminder, Real-ID-compliant driver's licenses will be required to pass through TSA security lines at airports for all travelers aged 18 and older starting May 7, 2025 .

Bottom line

Passport books and passport cards serve different purposes. Passport books are required as identification verification for international air travel. Passport cards serve that purpose but can only be used for land travel into the U.S. from specific destinations.

Travelers can apply for one or both documents, as they both are acceptable as U.S. citizenship identification.

I've been on more than 30 cruises with my family. Here are my 6 tips for saving money on board.

• As a budget-conscious, frequent cruiser I've found ways to save money while on these vacations.
• My family packs smart, takes advantage of included entertainment, and avoids pricey upcharges.
• We splurge on having fun in port but never book overpriced cruise-line shore excursions.

My family loves cruising , and we've found it's a fantastic way to explore different destinations while enjoying the amenities and entertainment offered on board.

And, after more than 30 cruises as a family, we've also found lots of ways to save money .

Here's how we make the most of our cruise budget and you can, too.

We pack smart and research everything we're allowed to bring on board.

For my family, saving money on a cruise starts during the packing process.

I always ensure we pack essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, and medications to avoid having to purchase them on board at inflated prices. I also bring reusable water bottles to fill at onboard water stations to save on beverage costs.

Also, many cruise lines allow you to bring some beverages , such as a limited amount of beer or wine, water, sports drinks, and soda, in your carry-on luggage. It's important to research guidelines in advance, as bringing these drinks on board can also save you money.

Instead of specialty dining or expensive drink packages, we take advantage of the included food and beverage options.

Today's cruises offer dining upcharges everywhere you look. From celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants to premium coffees, these extra food and beverage costs add up quickly.

With so many included dining and drink options on a cruise, my family prefers to skip these upgrades and only splurge on special occasions.

When it comes to cocktails, we avoid grossly overpriced drink packages and instead take advantage of "drink of the day" specials to save on our liquid refreshments.

Add-on experiences can add up quickly, so monitoring our onboard tab is essential.

Dining is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to upcharges.

Things like bingo, arcades, spa services, and WiFi all come with an extra charge as well, and it's easy to rack up a hefty tab.

I'm always on high alert for which services will cost extra and we make a point to check our itemized bill regularly to ensure we don't blow our budget on non-essential experiences.

Complimentary onboard activities are a major reason we love cruising, so we take full advantage of these offerings.

Before indulging in activities that cost an added fee, my family takes advantage of the ship's complimentary amenities, such as poolside entertainment, miniature golf, trivia contests, and live shows.

With cruises now including everything from zip lines, water slides, and carousels to rock climbing, ice skating, and laser tag, we often find that these activities are more than enough to keep us entertained without spending anything extra.

If there's an add-on I really want, like a massage, I try to book these on port days, as many cruise lines offer a discounted rate while the ship is docked.

Local vendors often offer cheaper shore excursions than those sold through the cruise line.

If there's one thing I splurge on, it's experiences in the cruise ports of call. However, although shore excursions booked through the cruise line are convenient (the ship won't leave without you when you're on one), they're also pricey.

Local tour operators often offer similar experiences at lower prices, and booking these on your own can save you money.

For example, renting a car at a stop can also be a great option if a rental-car facility is near the port.

While on a cruise in Iceland, my family rented a car in Akureyri. It was hundreds of dollars cheaper than going on a shore excursion, and we were able to customize our trip to see all the geothermal hot spots on our wish list.

Participating in cruise-line loyalty programs gets me onboard freebies and allows me to save even more in the future.

There's a reason many travelers remain loyal to a particular cruise line . Just like airlines and hotel chains, cruise companies have reward programs that incentivize you to book with them in the future.

My family frequently sails with Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, and we've earned perks such as free and discounted beverages, onboard gifts, priority boarding, and more.

These small incentives add up. Plus, most cruise lines offer a discount on future cruise bookings when they're made onboard your current sailing. This is a great way to save money on future cruises and it keeps us looking forward to our next vacation!

• Main content

The Problem with Going on a Cruise without a Passport

L uckily, as a U.S. citizen, you can cruise without a passport! However, there are restrictions—you can only cruise without a passport on closed-loop cruises. So, should you cruise without a passport? 

What is a Closed Loop Cruise?

A closed-loop cruise is a cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port and only travels within the Western Hemisphere on the same ship. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as a US citizen, when you go on a closed-loop cruise, you don’t need a passport to cruise; all you need is your birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID. 

This exception only applies to U.S. citizens. Non-U.S. Citizens will need their passport and visa to cruise, and U.S. permanent residents will need their green card and passport to go on closed-loop cruises. 

It’s important to note that you may still need a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting. It’s best to check with your cruise line. 

Where Can You Cruise without a Passport?

You can go on many cruises without a passport. There are a lot of options since most cruises departing from U.S. ports are closed-loop cruises.

New England and Canada Cruises

You can go on cruises to Canada without a passport. These cruises usually depart from Boston, Baltimore, or New York cruise ports. These cruises are perfect for enjoying the beautiful fall foliage and colors. You’ll likely make stops in Maine, Halifax, and Quebec during your cruise.

Bermuda Cruises

Bermuda cruises are also closed-loop cruises. They typically depart from Boston, Baltimore, and New York cruise ports, making them convenient closed-loop cruises. These Bermuda cruises are so convenient.

I personally live near the New York ports and love that I can just take an Uber to my cruise and in no time, I’ll be unwinding by the pool and spending a few days on the stunning pink sand beaches of Bermuda.

Caribbean and Bahamas Cruises

Many Caribbean and Bahamas cruises are closed-loop cruises. These cruises depart from New York, Baltimore, MD, Charleston, SC, Norfolk, VA, Galveston, TX, New Orleans, and Florida. 

As long as you are departing and arriving in the same U.S. port, then, you don’t need a passport to go on your Caribbean cruise. The only exceptions are the cruises that visit French West Indies ports such as Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, Martinique, and Saint Barth. For the French West Indies countries, you will be required to have a passport even if it’s a closed-loop cruise.

Mexico Cruises

You can cruise without a passport when you go on closed-loop Mexico cruises. These cruises depart from California cruise ports, Galveston, TX, New Orleans, and Miami.  

Alaska Cruises

Alaska cruises departing from U.S. ports like Seattle and San Francisco and returning to the same U.S. port do not require a passport. But, if you depart from Vancouver, which is in Canada, you will need a passport.

The Problem with Cruising without a Passport

The problem with cruising without a passport is that if you’re left behind by the ship and need to fly back home, you need your passport for international air travel. 

This is a nightmare scenario since you need your passport for international travel! Without it, you won’t be allowed to board the flight.

If you are on a closed-loop cruise without a passport, you really need to be extra careful. Avoid getting stranded at a foreign cruise port at all costs! Make sure that you don’t miss the cruise ship and find yourself stuck in a foreign country, with your only way back to the US being an international flight. 

Should You Cruise Without a Passport?

I personally don’t recommend going on a cruise without a passport, even if it’s allowed! It’s risky because what if you miss your ship? The only reason to cruise without a passport is if your passport has expired or is within 6 months of expiring and you just can’t get a new one in time or if you don’t have a valid one. 

If you choose to cruise without a passport, just be extra vigilant and make sure you don’t miss the ship since you will have a hard time getting back home! 

Before booking your cruise, always make sure you check with your cruise line to see if you are truly going on a closed-loop cruise and that there are no restrictions preventing you from going without a passport.

Check out these free cruise printables

Caribbean cruise packing list

Alaska cruise packing list

How Cruise Lines Trick You Into Spending More Money: 12 Sneaky Ways

16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hacks (How to Board the Ship Faster)

9 Most Annoying People at the Cruise Pool that You Should Avoid

I’m Cheap, Here are 9 Things I Always Do to Save Money on a Cruise

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