As travel consultants we often get the question, "Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?" The short answer would be yes and no. I know that doesn't really answer the question, so let us break it down.
There are two terms that get thrown around in the cruise world. These terms are "Closed Loop" and "Open Loop" with regard to types of cruises. "Closed Loop" cruises are cruises that leave from a start port and end at the same port (e.g. a cruise that leaves Ft. Lauderdale, Florida while stopping at all destination cruise ports, but returns to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to disembark). "Open Loop" cruises are when the cruise leaves a port, but returns to disembark in a completely different port (e.g. a cruise leaves Ft. Lauderdale, Florida while stopping at all destination cruise ports, but returns to Tampa, Florida to disembark).
Now that we have an understanding of these terms we can explain the yes and no answer. Any cruise that is considered a "Closed Loop" cruise only requires a Government Issued Photo ID and a Birth Certificate with a certified stamp. The reason being that you are leaving a US port and returning to the same US port (technically you are already verified as a citizen in that port). "Open Looped" cruises require a US passport because you are leaving a US port, but are returning to a "foreign" port (a port that hasn't processed you as a US Citizen).
Now with the question answered I want to leave you with a warning. As an agent I fully suggest that you travel on a cruise with a passport. The reasoning being if you do something like have a medical emergency that the ship cannot handle or if you are in foreign cruise port and you miss your boat (they will not wait or turn around if you are late) then you will be required to travel back to the USA and can be turned away without that proper required passport information.
The good thing with passports are that they last for up to 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under the age of 18 so they are a small investment to protect you and your family should this ever happen. Below is a link to the US Government website should you want to apply for or renew a passport.
Should you have any questions regarding this topic feel free to send us a brief message and we will be more than happy to help answer them for you.
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