Required Travel Documents
Details
Do I Need a Passport to Cruise?
✅ Best Option: Bring a Passport. All guests must show an accepted ID to board; a valid passport is strongly recommended (and sometimes required). It must be valid for at least six months after your cruise ends, and the name must match your reservation. For more information on passports, visit travel.state.gov
Why a passport is best:
- It's the gold standard for international travel.
- Speeds up customs and disembarkation.
- Essential if you miss the ship or need to fly home unexpectedly.
❗ Guests without proper documents may be denied boarding.
Can I Cruise with a Birth Certificate Instead?
🇺🇸 U.S. Citizens may use a state-certified birth certificate + government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) on most U.S.-departing cruises. But a passport is more secure and efficient.
Important guidelines if using a birth certificate:
- Only original, state-certified versions accepted—no hospital copies or photos.
- Must be paired with a valid photo ID (for guests 16+).
- Children 15 and under just need the birth certificate.
- All names must match exactly across your documents and reservation.