What are the cruise passport requirements? For most cruises, a valid passport is often the best ID to carry. The U.S. Department of State recommends all travelers carry a valid passport anytime you leave the country. This includes driving to Canada and Mexico and also cruises. Even most cruiselines now highly recommend a valid passport, even if it’s a closed-loop cruise.

Passport Requirements for Closed Loop Cruises

Passport Requirements for CruisesA “closed loop voyage” means the cruise ship begins and ends at the same U.S. Port, even if it makes stops outside the country. Cruises are meant to be relaxing and fun. They are a great way to get away and spend time with loved ones. That didn’t work out so well recently for passengers of the Carnival Triumph. An engine fire turned their relaxing getaway into a living condition disaster with spoiled food and unworkable plumbing. What made the cruise even worse was that since it was a “closed loop voyage,” it wasn’t required for cruise passengers to bring their passports.

Carnival officials had initially planned to tow the ship to a Mexican port and let passengers fly home. Unfortunately though, 900 of them didn’t have passports which is required when flying into the U.S. If all the passengers had passports, an emergency like this may have been fixed a lot quicker. So if you decide to go on a cruise in the future, it is definitely recommended you make sure to bring your passport, just in case.

Emergency situations may arise and you don’t want to be stranded. A valid passport book is always the best thing you can take on any trip that takes you outside the country.

How fast can I get my passport?

Is your U.S. passport expired? Did you lose your passport? Standard passport processing is 6-8 weeks. Need your passport faster? Don’t worry; there are expedited U.S. passport services available like Rush My Passport that can help get your U.S. passport FAST. If you have a limited amount of time before your vacation trip, visit RushMyPassport.com.  We can help you get your U.S. passport fast and in time for your upcoming cruise.