What do I need when boarding a cruise?

What do I need when boarding a cruise? For most cruises, you'll need a passport book that's valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. In some cases, you can use a passport card instead of a passport book, but that will only work if you plan to reenter the United States via your ship from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean.

What forms of birth certificate are acceptable for cruises?

Birth Certificate Information The following are acceptable: An original or copy of a birth certificate issued by a government agency (state/county/city) or the Department of Health and Vital Statistics.

What is the first thing you do when you get on a cruise?

1. Drop your bags in your cabin. Depending on your cruise line, you may be able to access your cabin as soon as you board, at least to drop off your bags. By dropping off your cruise carry-on bag and other items, you can explore the ship and have some lunch, without the hassle of carrying your luggage with you.

Can you bring as much luggage as you want on a cruise?

In short, how many bags you can take on a cruise will depend heavily on your cruise line. Some have no limits, while others restrict the number of bags and set weight limits. Before packing, check with whichever cruise line you're sailing to ensure you have the latest information.

Why did Carnival charge me $200?

On embarkation day, an initial bank hold of up to $200 (depending on cruise length) is placed on all credit card and debit card accounts to verify that the card is valid: 2 - 6 day cruise: $100 USD for each stateroom charged using the same credit card or debit card.

Can I get off the cruise without a passport?

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship, such as an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where he or she was born) or passport, and if 16 or older, a government ...

Can you use a copy of your birth certificate for a cruise?

Birth Certificate Information The following are acceptable: An original or copy of a birth certificate issued by a government agency (state/county/city) or the Department of Health and Vital Statistics.

What do you spend money on during a cruise?

On most cruise ships, crew gratuities, shore excursions, spa treatments, casino play, internet and purchases in the onboard shops will all be additional costs.

Do I need a passport to board a cruise ship?

We recommend that everyone taking a cruise from the United States have a passport book. Though some “closed-loop” cruises may not require a U.S. passport, we recommend bringing yours in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port.

Do they check your bags on a cruise?

If you're planning to go on a cruise, you might be wondering whether cruise lines check your luggage. The answer is yes, they do.

Can I cruise to Mexico without a passport?

All travelers are advised to carry a valid passport with them when taking a cruise to Mexico, regardless of their nationality and port of departure. US citizens on closed-loop cruises, meaning they begin and end at the same US port, can travel to Mexico with proof of citizenship other than a passport.

Can you use a Social Security card instead of birth certificate for cruise?

Voter registration cards or Social Security are not considered proof of citizenship. If the child is a newborn and the actual birth certificate has not arrived from the Vital Records Department, we will accept a hospital issued birth certificate.

What is the process for boarding a cruise?

How much money should a person bring on a cruise?

The answer to this question varies a lot by person, their travel habits, spending preferences, length of the cruise and destination. Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences.

How early should I arrive to board a cruise?

Do not attempt to arrive earlier than is permitted. However, arriving later in the day (but before the designated cut-off time) can speed up the boarding process. It is always recommended to arrive at the pier at least 3 hours prior to the departure time. If you are late you risk being denied boarding.

How do you get freebies on a cruise ship?

What money do you use on a cruise?

Onboard currency depends on the cruise line with which you're sailing. If it's an American cruise line, the onboard currency will be the dollar; if you're sailing a European line, expect the onboard currency to be the euro. It's always best to check with your line before boarding.

Can you go on a cruise without a passport and birth certificate?

If you're a United States citizen going on a “closed loop” cruise, you'll only need to present: Government issued photo identification. Proof of citizenship (an original or copy of your U.S. birth certificate, a Consular report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization)

What cruise line does not require a passport?

Carnival offers many Caribbean cruise options including sailings that depart and return to U.S. ports like Baltimore, Norfolk and New Orleans. These don't require a passport as they are closed-loop sailings.

Can I bring my own food on a cruise?

If it's homemade, not in a sealed package or needs refrigeration or to be cooked, it's prohibited. The only food allowed on cruise ships is store-bought items in sealed, shelf-stable packaging. If you're tempted to try to smuggle something on board, it's not recommended.

Do you need papers to go on a cruise?

Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification, proof of your booking number and boarding information, and confirmation that you aren't ill. You must present these upon arrival at the port.