are passports needed for disney cruises

A passport being held up for the camera in front of a Disney Cruise Ship

Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to cruise with Disney . Maybe you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with your family that includes all the amenities of a luxury resort, or maybe you’re looking for an exciting adventure where you can explore new places and make memories that will last a lifetime. No matter what your reasons are, all-inclusive Disney vacations are sure to be an unforgettable experience.

In this article we tackle an important topic – passports.

Do I Need to Bring a Passport?

Everyone boarding a Disney Cruise must provide proof of citizenship as well as a government-issued photo ID. But do you need a passport, specifically? This depends on what country your cruise ship is departing from and its destination.

You will not need a passport if your sailing starts at a United States port, travels only to certain locations (Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, or Caribbean), and returns to the same U.S. port.

If your cruise originates from (or will end in) another country, you will need a passport. You’ll be asked to provide your passport details seventy-five days before your vacation and will also need to have it in-hand to board.

Even if your cruise does not require a passport, bringing a passport is always recommended . If you have an emergency that requires you to fly home mid-cruise, or fail to return to the ship on-time before it leaves a port you’re visiting, you will need a passport to board a plane.

Also note that our guide here primarily applies to US Citizens . Permanent legal residents and citizens of other countries should check with Disney Cruise Line, the U.S. State Department, or their local consulate for guidance.

Cruises Requiring a Passport

For certain cruises, a passport is required for all guests. If you’re planning on taking any of the following cruises, be sure your passport is ready and valid (and remember, some countries may require your passport be valid for several months after your visit):

Transatlantic: These cruises typically travel between the US and Europe, and sometimes include stops in the Caribbean or other parts of the world.

European : These cruises visit Norway, Northern Europe, Iceland, or the British Isles. Sometimes, they also include stops in other parts of Europe, like Spain, Rome, Greece, Croatia, or France.

Mediterranean: These cruises typically travel to Spain, Rome, Greece, Croatia, or France. They may also include stops in other parts of Europe or the Mediterranean.

Panama Canal: These cruises travel through the Panama Canal, typically between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and may also include stops in Central America or the Caribbean.

River Cruises and Expedition Cruises (with Adventures by Disney): These cruises travel on European rivers like the Danube or exotic locales such as the Galapagos Islands.

The Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Mexican Riviera (Round-Trip Cruises from the U.S.)

Setting sail on a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean or Mexican Riviera? You’re in for a magical time!

Ideally, you’ll have a valid US Passport, Passport Card, or Trusted Traveler Card (Nexus, Sentri, Fast). If you don’t have a passport, no worries – you can still come along as long as you have a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a drivers license) and one of the following: state-issued birth certificate (no photocopies), Consular Report of a Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Naturalization. If you have kiddos under sixteen years old traveling with you, they don’t need to show photo ID, but must present one of the three forms of documentation outlined above.

A passport or a trusted traveler card is necessary for Canadians; all other international residents must fulfill the requirements of your country’s entry regulations. A Legal Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is required for US Legal Permanent Residents.

Remember – these rules apply only if your cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port. One-way cruises that end in a different port than they began may have different rules — check well in advance of your trip so you have plenty of time to obtain the appropriate travel documents.

Alaska Disney Cruises

When planning an Alaskan cruise with Disney , there are a few things to keep in mind. First, if you’re flying into Vancouver to board the ship, you’ll need a valid US passport for arrival in Canada. For those arriving in Canada by land or sea (before boarding the cruise), you’ll need a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Naturalization, along with a government-issued photo ID.

Also, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes – even in the summer, Alaska can be chilly! Of course, don’t forget your camera to capture all the breathtaking scenery. From towering glaciers to pristine forests, Alaska is truly a nature lover’s paradise. A cruise is the perfect way to see everything this amazing state has to offer.

Pacific Coast, Hawai’i, and Canada

Disney occasionally offers sailings in these regions, and it’s a great way to see some new and amazing scenery. U.S. citizens arriving/departing by air in Canada will need a valid passport, and those arriving by land or sea (before the cruise begins) will need a passport card or Trusted Traveler Card. Legal permanent residents of the U.S. must provide a Green Card / Permanent Resident Card.

We always recommend having a passport if you’re going to cruise, but on some itineraries you can travel without one and still have the trip of a lifetime. If you don’t have a passport, remember to double check passport requirements carefully so you know exactly which documents to add to your cruise packing checklist . And if you’re looking for how to book those tickets – we’ve got you covered on the best places to book a Disney cruise .

Can’t choose which cruise to take?

Check out our latest article to learn more about Disney Cruises versus Royal Caribbean cruises and see which one is best for you.

We highly recommend contacting The Vacationeer ! Their expert Disney travel planners are Disney Cruise Experts and can make planning a breeze. Get a free quote today — their services are provided at no additional cost to you, and there’s never any obligation to book.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Line Documentation

Anyone embarking on a Disney Cruise Line sailing must provide identification documents prior to check-in . Some guests, particularly those who are new to international travel, may find the documentation requirements confusing. We’re here to help. But before we get started … please note that these are the rules for UNITED STATES CITIZENS .

Residents of other countries have different requirements. It is your responsibility to have the correct paperwork. When in doubt, consult the DCL website, call DCL at 1-800-951-3532, or consult US Department of State resources.

Are there different documentation rules for children and adults?

All people, regardless of age, must provide identifying documents to sail. See below for the few exceptions where people under the age of 16 may use slightly different paperwork.

What identification documents will I need to sail?

This depends on where your sailing originates and where you’re going. There are different rules for different types of voyages, which I’ll enumerate below.

That said, the gold standard for travel identification is a passport book. A passport will work as an identifying document in all travel situations.

What are the reasons why I wouldn’t want to get a passport?

The main reason people opt out of getting a passport is price. Currently the price for adults to get a new or renewal passport book is $135 (good for 10 years) and for children under age 16 is $100, (good for 5 years). There is also a $35 execution fee for each person. If you have a large family, that can add a hefty cost to your vacation.

Additionally, there are now significant processing times for passports. Waits of up to 16 weeks are not unheard of. If you book your cruise close to your sail date, you might not have time to get a passport delivered.

Or if, for example, your cruise is a family reunion that includes an elderly relative who will clearly be unable to travel beyond your sailing, then applying for a passport might not be worth the expense and trouble.

Even so, a passport can be a valuable ID tool in other non-travel situations for most citizens.

What is a passport card? How is it different from a passport book?

Use : Allows international travel by air, sea, or land.
Size : Larger, with more pages for visas and stamps.
Cost : More expensive than a passport card.
Recommended for : Extensive international travel.
Use : Allows land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Size : Wallet-sized, similar to a credit card.
Cost : Less expensive than a passport book.
Recommended for : Traveling to specific nearby countries by land or sea.

Note that one of the main differences between a passport card and passport book is that the book may be used for air travel while the card may not. If you were to encounter an emergency on a Caribbean island (for example), you could use a passport book to fly home quickly. This would not be possible with a passport card.

I’m going on an Alaskan DCL cruise and see (below) that there are different rules for different arrival methods. Why does it matter how I get to Vancouver?

While US citizens can certainly visit Alaska with no extraordinary identification, DCL cruises headed to Alaska embark from the Canadian port of Vancouver.

As noted above, you can use a US passport card to arrive in Canada via land or sea, but not by air. If you’re a US citizen and take a train or car to Vancouver you can use a passport card or Trusted Traveler card, but not if you’re flying to Vancouver. You should also be aware that some port excursions on the Alaskan cruises travel into Canada. Your ID documents may impact whether a particular excursion is available to you.

I’d like to get a passport, but my cruise is coming up soon. Is there any way to get a passport quickly?

To get a passport in 7-9 weeks, the US State Department offers an expedited service for an additional $60 per application in addition to the regular passport fees.

If your sailing is sooner than 9 weeks away, you might qualify for Urgent Travel processing. If your travel is fewer than 14 days away, you may be able to get an in-person processing appointment. These appointments can be hard to come by may not be available near your home. Call 877-487-2778 for more information.

My child does not have a passport or a Government-issued photo ID, does this mean they can’t sail?

Children age 15 and younger are an exception to the above rule. If your child is 15 or younger, they may use one on the above documents without also providing a photo ID.

Note that US states can provide a non-driver official ID for citizens ages 16 and up. The fee for this is typically less than the fee to get a driver’s license.

Can I use my Social Security Card for cruise ID?

No neither Social Security nor Global Entry cards are acceptable of proof of United States citizenship for travel outside of the US.

I have a baby. Are there special circumstances for getting a passport for an infant?

I’ll refer you to an excellent article from Afar Magazine that addresses this very topic.

What is the six-month validity rule for passports?

If you have a passport that is expiring in the next year, you may want to renew it prior to your cruise. Most countries require your US passport to have a minimum of 6-months validity after your intended return date.

The purpose of this validity is to safeguard against unforeseen delays you may face in leaving the country you are visiting. (You get stuck in a country due to a new pandemic outbreak, for example.) The State Department recommends that U.S. citizens renew their passports approximately nine months before the date of expiration.

I’m getting married and am going on a cruise for my honeymoon. Can I still sail if my new married name doesn’t match my passport?

You may be able to use a passport with a previous name if you also bring with you a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court documents showing a legal name change. That said, you’ll run into fewer problems is your booking and identification documents all match.

This is a situation where you should call DCL and the US State Department in advance to ensure that you’ll be able to sail. In some cases, changing the name on your cruise booking or expediting an updated passport may facilitate your travels.

All this passport stuff is confusing me. Can anyone help?

While DCL doesn’t offer any help, several other major cruise lines recommend VisaCentral.com (877-304-8071) as a reputable source of passport assistance. This is a fee-based service, but if you just want someone to guide you through the process, these folks can help.

How do I get my ID documents to Disney Cruise Line?

DCL asks guests to submit their ID documents online prior to sailing. This takes place during the Online Check-In process . You must also bring all your ID documents with you to your cruise embarkation.

Identification Rules for Different Situations

Ok. let’s say i’m sailing out of a united states port and returning to the same united states port (a “closed loop” cruise). what documents do i need for this.

For a sailing that starts and ends in the United States (for example, those sailing both to and from Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, San Diego, New York, or New Orleans), guests will need to present a valid original (not a copy) US passport book, a valid original (not a copy) US passport card, or a valid original (not a copy) Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST).

If you don’t have a passport or Trusted Traveler card, you can substitute with any of the following:

Puerto Rico birth certificates issued prior to 7/1/10 are not acceptable
Hospital-issued birth certificates are not acceptable
Original Consular Report of Birth Abroad 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)

Note: Closed-loop sailings are the most common type of Disney Cruise Line voyage, but there are many others.

What if I’m not going a US-based closed loop cruise? Do the rules change?

Yes. And there are several variations, so be sure you know the rules for your specific situation.

For Alaskan cruises originating in Vancouver , US citizens will need:

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

Original valid US Passport

US Citizens (Guests 16 years of age and older) Traveling to Canada (Vancouver) by Land or Sea

Original valid US Passport Card
Original valid Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST)

US Citizens (Guests 15 years of age and younger) Traveling to Canada (Vancouver) by Land or Sea

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).

For one-way (repositioning) Caribbean cruises (examples may include Galveston to San Juan, San Juan to Miami or Fort Lauderdale).

US Citizens (Including Children)

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

For European sailings :

Original valid passport (valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended)
Additionally, you may be required to obtain a multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ). It is each Guest’s responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary visas.

For Pacific Coast or Canada sailings between Hawaii and Vancouver – One-way (repositioning) cruises :

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

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

For Panama Canal crossings :

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

For Transatlantic crossings :

Original valid US Passport (valid at least 6 months after the sailing has ended)
In addition to a valid passport, you may be required to obtain multiple-entry visas for Europe ( Schengen Visa ).

US Legal Permanent Residents

In addition to all the permutations listed above, there are several ID variations needed for US guests going on the Australia and New Zealand cruises, including the South Pacific Repositioning sailings, depending on whether there are minor children in the party, whether the minors are accompanied by their legal guardians or not, and whether the cruise makes a port stop in New Caledonia (a French territory). US citizens will need a passport book for these sailings and visas may be necessary in some situations. PLEASE speak to a travel agent or DCL directly to ensure that you understand the nuances of ID requirements and permissions for minors for these sailings.

What have been your experiences with ID documents for Disney cruises? Let us know in the comments.

Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

2 thoughts on “ Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Line Documentation ”

The Panama Canal information is not correct. You can only travel with a Passport or similar document. The Disney Website is NOT correct with that information. There were folks on the WB Panama Canal this year that ended up with cancelled cruises because they followed what was on the DCL website. Their documentation was never approved prior to port and Disney called them to remind them they needed passports. This is outlined in the Western Hemisphere Trave Initiative and on the Customs and Border Control Website as well. Further NEXUS is not valid as this is a sea entry as well.

We did a closed loop out of Italy this summer (2023). At the time, Italy was ok with a child’s passport with 3+ months remaining, it was DCL that refused (via the app) and calling only gave vague answers like ‘probably OK’ but could not guarantee anything. As this would have mean all 3 of us missing a 7 day cruise with no refunds or place to stay, we went to the Consulate in Rome for an emergency passport. Surprisingly, took only a few hours (we had her birth certificate and her standard passport) and the fee paid was applicable toward a renewed passport once we got home.

One of more than a few things as 1st time cruisers that we had to learn as we went from DCL.

Are Passports Required to Go on a Disney Cruise?

by Melissa Roden · March 5, 2019

With Summer 2020 itineraries opening up for booking this week with Disney Cruise Line, you may be thinking about planning a family adventure at sea. When it comes to setting sail with Disney Cruise Line, many of the itineraries do make stops at foreign ports of call. As a result, there are documentation factors that you must take into account before you set sail that you don’t have to worry about when planning a theme park visit. But don’t worry! We here at MickeyBlog are here to set you straight with our handy guide to cruise documents!

Do I need to get passports for my family before going on a cruise?

This is single-handedly the question I get asked the most by those thinking about a Disney Cruise! That’s because there are some grey areas when it comes to cruise documentation. Let’s start with the sailings that you 100% need a passport for these include:

Transatlantic
European (Norweigan, Northern Europe, Iceland, British Isles)
Mediterranean (Spain, Rome, Greece, Croatia, France)
Panama Canal
River Cruises (With Adventures by Disney)

The Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and Mexican Riviera Sailings

For families setting sail on one of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings to the Eastern or Western Caribbean, Bermuda, or the Bahamas the following iD is required:

A valid US Passport
A valid US Passport Card
A valid Trusted Traveler Card (Nexus, Sentri, Fast)

Alternatively, you also have the option of travelling without a passport if you bring along a valid photo ID (like a drivers license) and one of the following:

State issued Birth Certificate
Consular Report of a Birth Abroad
Certificate of Naturalization

On these sailings, children under the age of 16 don’t need to show photo ID but must present one of the three forms of documentation outlined above.

For Canadians, a passport or trusted traveller card is required. All other foreign citizens must meet the entry requirements for your country.

For U.S. Legal Permanent Residents a Legal Permanent Resident Card (aka “Green Card”) or Alien Resident Card (ARC) is required. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Alaskan Cruises

Alaskan Cruises can be a bit tricky because it depends on how you arrive in Canada. For those flying into Vancouver to board the ship, you MUST have a valid US passport. For those arriving into Canada by land or sea the following documentation is required:

Original valid U.S. Passport
Original valid U.S. Passport Card
Original valid Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
Original or copy of their state-issued birth certificate AND Government-issued photo ID
Original Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State AND Government-issued photo ID
Original Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services AND Government-issued photo ID

Caribbean – One-Way Cruises

Disney will on occasion offer one-way sailings leaving from the U.S. mainland to San Juan ar vice versa. In these instances the following documentation is required:

Guests who are legal permanent residents of the U.S. must provide a valid original Legal Permanent Resident Card, also known as a “Green Card,” or “Alien Resident Card (ARC).” Photocopies are not acceptable.

Pacific Coast, Canada or Hawai’i – One-Way Cruises

Occasionally Disney will offer one-way sailings from the U.S. to Vancouver, from New York to Quebec or Vancouver to Hawai’i in these instances the following documentation is required.

Citizens travel to or returning from Canada by Air:

Traveling to Canada by Land or Sea:

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

Residents of Canada Traveling to the U.S by Sea:

Original valid Canadian Passport
Canadian Permanent Residents must travel with a valid passport and their Permanent Resident Card, also known as a “PRC,” to travel outside of Canada

I’m Going on a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas. I Don’t Need To Get Passports for My Family, Do I?

Having to get your first U.S. Passport can be a daunting task for travellers. I get contacted by families all the time who would prefer to avoid the process. According to the documentation requirements I outlined above, it isn’t essential to have a valid U.S. Passport, you could get by with Photo ID as well as birth certificates. However, I ALWAYS encourage clients to travel with a passport whenever possible and here’s why. The ships in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet are flagged in the Bahamas which means once you board you are subject to Bahama and International Maritime Law. Let’s say you were planning on disembarking in a foreign port and an accident were to happen, Arranging for emergency travel home or medical care in a foreign country can suddenly become much more complicated without a passport. I also find when traveling with small children, having a Valid Photo ID does bring that extra peace of mind should you accidentally get separated.

So the long and short of it is that you may be trying to save yourself the cost of passports but in the long run you are much safer having them with you. I think its an extra expense worth including in your travel budget.

Passport Cards

I’m noticing a growing trend as of late where clients are being told they can avoid having to dole out for a full-fledged passport and instead get a passport card. Because this form of ID isn’t as prominent as standard passports it can raise concerns among travellers as to whether or not this is good enough when it comes to ID. For those unfamiliar, Passport Cards are wallet-size travel documents (like a driver’s license) that can be used to re-enter the United States at land border-crossings or ports of entry from the following:

The Caribbean

If your cruise covers the following destinations than you should be okay with a Passport Cards. That being said if you plan on doing more traveling in the future getting full coverage with a Passport may be the better option.

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Melissa Roden

As an agent with MickeyTravels and a Blogger with MickeyBlog I enjoy sharing, tips, tricks and advice to help readers and clients get the most out of your time with Disney. When I'm not helping clients plan their perfect holidays or nab those hard-to-get discounts you can find me enjoying a Dole Whip at Disney World with my daughter! Reach out for a FREE, no obligation quote at 1.800.801.4025 or find me on Facebook !

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Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?

If you’re considering a Disney cruise, you may be wondering about the passport requirements. This article will provide you with essential information about the passport requirements for Disney cruises, travel documentation, booking options without a passport, and tips for passport preparation.

Key Takeaways

Passports are not required for closed-loop cruises that start and end at the same U.S. port.
Passports are required for international Disney cruise destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska.
Children under 16 traveling on Disney cruises can use a birth certificate instead of a passport.
Domestic Disney cruises, such as those to the Bahamas, may not require a passport for U.S. citizens.
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates to avoid any issues when boarding the cruise ship.

Passport Requirements for Disney Cruises

Passport for international destinations.

When traveling to international destinations on a Disney Cruise, it is important to be aware of the specific passport requirements for each country. Ensure that your travel documentation is up to date and valid for the duration of your cruise. Some countries may have strict entry requirements, so it’s essential to research and prepare accordingly. Additionally, certain countries may require a visa for entry, so be sure to check the visa requirements for each destination. It’s also advisable to carry a copy of your passport and other important documents in case of loss or theft. Finally, familiarize yourself with the local customs and regulations of the countries you will be visiting to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.

Passport for Children

When traveling with children on a Disney cruise, it’s important to consider the passport requirements for minors. Children under the age of 16 are not required to have a passport for tourism purposes on closed-loop cruises that depart and return to the same U.S. port. However, it’s advisable to carry a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate as a form of identification. For international cruises or cruises that involve non-U.S. ports, a passport for children is necessary. It’s essential to check the specific entry requirements for each destination to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. Additionally, parents or legal guardians should be prepared to provide consent forms and other documentation when traveling with minors. It’s recommended to review the Disney cruise line’s policies regarding travel documentation for children to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Travel Documentation for Disney Cruises

Birth Certificates and ID

When it comes to Birth Certificates and ID , it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary documentation for all travelers. Each passenger, including children, must have a valid form of identification. This may include a certified birth certificate or a government-issued ID. For international cruises, a passport may be required for all passengers, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements for your destination. Additionally, it’s advisable to carry a passport even for domestic cruises to U.S. territories to ensure smooth entry and exit procedures. Remember, the goal is to have a hassle-free and top fun experience on your Disney cruise !

Traveling with Minors

When traveling with minors on a Disney cruise, it’s important to ensure that all necessary travel documentation is in order. This includes birth certificates and identification for each child, as well as any visas or entry requirements for the destinations on the itinerary. Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of any specific travel regulations that apply to minors, such as age restrictions or parental consent requirements. Ensuring that all required documents are prepared in advance can help streamline the check-in process and avoid any last-minute complications. For more information on traveling with minors on a Disney cruise, it’s recommended to consult the official Disney Cruise Line website or speak with a qualified travel agent.

Booking a Disney Cruise without a Passport

Domestic Cruise Options

For a Cruise Getaway within the United States , passengers have the option to embark on a domestic Disney cruise without the need for a passport. This is particularly convenient for travelers who prefer to explore the enchanting destinations of the U.S. while enjoying the exceptional amenities and entertainment offered on a Disney cruise. Additionally, passengers can experience the magic of a Disney cruise to U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without the requirement of a passport. It’s important to note that special considerations and travel documentation may still apply for non-passport holders, so it’s advisable to review the specific requirements for each destination.

Cruise to U.S. Territories

When cruising to U.S. Territories, travelers have the option to explore beautiful destinations without the need for a passport . This makes it an ideal choice for those who are in the process of vacation planning and may not have a passport readily available. However, it’s important to note that while a passport may not be required, other forms of identification and travel documentation are still necessary. Be sure to check the specific requirements for each U.S. Territory, as they may vary. Additionally, travelers should consider the duration of their stay and any planned excursions to ensure they have the appropriate documentation for a smooth and enjoyable trip. For more information on U.S. Territory travel requirements, consult the official government websites or contact the cruise line directly.

Special Considerations for Non-Passport Holders

If you’re embarking on a Disney cruise without a passport, it’s important to be aware of the specific travel documentation requirements for your destination. Ensure that you have the necessary identification and travel documents to participate in all cruise activities . Consider consulting with Disney Cruise Line or a travel advisor for guidance on the documentation needed for your specific cruise itinerary. Be mindful of any restrictions or limitations on shore excursions or port activities based on your travel documentation. Always prioritize safety and compliance with local regulations when engaging in cruise activities at various ports of call.

Tips for Passport Preparation

Applying for a Passport

To apply for a passport, you will need to complete the appropriate application form and gather the necessary supporting documents. This includes proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, as well as a valid form of photo identification. Additionally, you will need to provide a passport photo that meets the specific requirements set by the issuing authority. Once you have assembled all the required documents, you can submit your application at a designated passport acceptance facility. Be sure to check the processing times for passport applications, as they can vary depending on the current demand and any expedited services you may require. After submitting your application, you can track its status online using the provided tracking number. Remember to apply for your passport well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications or delays.

Passport Renewal

When it comes to passport renewal , it’s important to plan ahead and be aware of the processing times. Renewing your passport well in advance of your travel date can help avoid any last-minute issues. Be sure to check the expiration date of your passport and the entry requirements for your destination. Additionally, consider using expedited services if you have upcoming travel plans. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Processing Times : Regular passport processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to check the current processing times on the official government website.
Expedited Services : If you need your passport sooner, expedited services are available for an additional fee. Be aware of the requirements and fees associated with expedited processing.

Tip: Always double-check the accuracy of the information provided on your passport application to avoid delays or rejections.

Passport Validity and Expiration

When planning a Disney cruise, it’s crucial to be aware of the passport validity and expiration requirements. Ensuring that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your cruise is essential for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Additionally, it’s important to note that some countries may have specific passport expiration rules, so it’s advisable to check the expiration requirements for each destination on your itinerary. Remember to check your passport’s expiration date well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues or disruptions during your cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a passport for a disney cruise if i am a u.s. citizen.

Yes, a passport is not required for closed-loop cruises that depart from and return to the same U.S. port.

Do I need a passport for a Disney cruise to the Caribbean?

A passport is highly recommended for all Disney cruises to the Caribbean, even if it is not required by the cruise line.

Do children need a passport for a Disney cruise?

Children under 16 years old can travel on a closed-loop cruise with just a birth certificate and government-issued ID, but a passport is recommended.

What travel documentation is required for a Disney cruise?

For U.S. citizens, a birth certificate and government-issued ID are sufficient for closed-loop cruises. Passports are recommended for international cruises.

Can I book a Disney cruise without a passport?

Yes, there are domestic cruise options that do not require a passport, as well as cruises to U.S. territories where a passport may not be necessary.

How do I apply for a passport?

You can apply for a passport through the U.S. Department of State by completing the required application form, providing proof of citizenship, and submitting the necessary fees.

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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?

Passports on a map showing cruise lanes.

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.

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Disney Cruise Mom Blog

I am a mom who loves all things Disney, but especially Disney Cruises! I enjoy sharing everything I have learned and hope that it will help others plan their own vacations.

Cruises and Passports

June 15, 2016 by Disney Cruise Mom 6 Comments

Not all cruises require passports. Some only require a certified copy of your birth certificate plus a photo ID (for everyone over 18). Since I am not qualified to give legal advice, I will just direct you the DCL website that will give you more details:

https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/passport-travel-documentation/

If you really want to get into the nitty gritty, here is what the US Customs and Border Protection has to say about it:

https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/1139/~/documents-needed-to-take-a-cruise

Even though some sailings don’t require a passport, many people feel more comfortable having them and get/bring them anyway. If there were to be an emergency that required you to leave the cruise and fly home early, from a foreign country, then a passport would be necessary to re-enter the US by air. It’s likely that, in a serious emergency, there would be a way to eventually get you on a flight back to the US without a passport, but I doubt it would be without a lot of time, stress and money. It really all just comes down to your own comfort level.

Before our first cruise, I decided to get passports for all of our kids (my husband and I already had them) even though they weren’t necessary. It was a significant expense, but I tend to be a worrier and I really needed the peace of mind. Plus, I knew we would eventually need them anyway for our Panama Canal cruise (trip report here ).

Passports and Port Excursions

Another decision you must make, if you do cruise with your passport, is whether to take it with you when you leave the ship in port. Some ports require passports (check with DCL for which ones) but many do not. I cannot find official word from DCL on what they recommend, but I have heard that they recommend you leave it on the ship in your room safe. If this is indeed true, I think their reasoning is that it is more likely that your passport will be lost or stolen while in port than you having an emergency which would require you to fly back to the US. If your passport is lost or stolen, you will have one heck of a time going through customs upon disembarkation. DCL does advise all cruisers to take a copy of the daily Navigator with them when they leave the ship in port as it has the name and phone number of the ship’s agent in that port. If there is an emergency on shore, you are to call the ship’s agent who will work with DCL to handle the situation. Feasibly, this could be a way to get your passport off the ship and into your hands should an emergency arise on shore.

It seems as though people tend to be split pretty evenly on this topic. I would say about half insist on taking their passport with them on shore, and the other half leave them on the ship and just take their drivers license and possibly a photocopy of their passport. Once again, this is a personal decision and both options have pros and cons. We leave ours on the ship. But, we always make sure to return to the ship at least 1-2 hours prior to all aboard time.

Passports and Expiration Dates

Did you know that some countries will deny entry to those whose passports expire within the next 6 months? I have read about people not being able to board a cruise ship because their passport expired 5 months and 29 days later. Crazy, right? This is something that I find most people have no idea about. Here are some of the best links I could find on the subject:

http://www.uspassporthelpguide.com/six-months-validity-rule/

https://fastportpassport.com/blog/six-month-validity-passport-rule

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2014/09/231319.htm

So, before your next cruise or land vacation that requires a passport, make sure that you check the laws of the countries you will be visiting and renew your passport far enough in advance to avoid this.

Additionally, many of you have asked about my passport wallet in the above photo. You can see more details or purchase it by clicking here .

As always, don’t forget to like me on Facebook ( click here ) and follow me on Pinterest ( click here ) for all of the latest Disney Cruise Mom Blog updates!

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through my links, the seller will pay me a small commission for it at no additional cost to you. I am grateful for your support of this site in this way, so thank you!

June 15, 2016 at 8:08 am

Coming from Canada we always cruise with a passport because we need it for entry to the US. my question to you is where did you get the passport holder in your picture?

June 15, 2016 at 1:41 pm

Hi Marj! This is the passport holder in the photo: http://amzn.to/1ZRDZAF There are others available on Amazon as well. I like mine because it has lots of pockets both inside and out.

June 16, 2016 at 11:42 am

I always take my passport ashore with me. In many of our ports, we’ve needed it just to get back on the ship. I pack clothes with zipper pockets large enough to accommodate my passport. I zip it in place and forget it is there until I need it, so there is no constant stress of “keeping up with it.” It has worked out well for me in our six cruises so far.

June 16, 2016 at 1:01 pm

That sounds like a really good plan! There is virtually no way it will get lost or stolen if zipped in a pocket. Thanks for the tip!

August 17, 2016 at 12:27 pm

We are getting ready for our first cruise! Your website is awesome!!

August 17, 2016 at 12:43 pm

Thanks Keesa!!! So glad you are enjoying it!

Do I Need a Passport on a Disney Cruise?

Question: Do I need a Passport on a Disney Cruise?

Answer: While it is HIGHLY recommended that all cruisers have a passport (more on this in a bit), passengers aboard the Disney Cruise Line to the Bahamas and Caribbean do not need to possess a passport. Adult travelers can substitute a government issued photo ID (such as a Driver’s License) and a government issued or certified copy of a birth certificate (with a raised seal). Children under 16 would just need to bring a government issued or certified copy of a birth certificate (with a raised seal).

For all European and Canadian cruises, a valid passport is required.

Now, here’s why I recommended ALL cruisers have a passport. Say you are having a great time aboard your Disney Cruise (or any cruise for that matter) and you fall ill or hear of a major family emergency while in port in Jamaica, or any other country for that matter. You need to get back to the US as soon as possible and the only way to do is by air. You will need a passport to board a plane and re-enter the US. While situations like this do not happen often, you never know when luck might not be on your side and in order to avoid any delays or issues, it’s best to have a passport in hand.

I’d love to help you plan your next adventure aboard the Disney Cruise Line and make sure everything is in order for you trip. Email me at [email protected] to chat and follow me on Facebook to keep up with Disney updates!

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Required Documentation and Customs Regulations

Documentation

All U.S. citizens must travel with proof of citizenship, which is a valid passport, or certified birth certificate (with official raised seal) and picture identification, or a certified naturalization certificate with a picture identification. Acceptable forms of picture identification are state driver’s license, or federal, state, or local government photo I.D. card. Guests age 17 and under who are U.S. citizens are only required to have proof of citizenship, excluding picture identification. These guidelines are based on U.S. government regulations which are subject to change at any time.

While a passport is not always required for a cruise, it is highly recommended. If an unexpected emergency arose requiring a guest to fly home from a port, the guest with a passport already has the proper documentation. The guest without proper documentation, is not going to be able to fly home. Please be sure to check with the U.S. Department of State for current regulations. It is the guest’s responsibility to check with government agencies, embassies or consulates prior to their vacation to ensure that they have proper documentation.

Please ensure that you have the proper identification and required documentation when planning your cruise. Without proper proof you will be denied boarding, and will not be entitled to a refund. We suggest that all U.S. and Canadian Citizens travel with a valid passport as their documentation.

Security guidelines require all adult guests to show a picture I.D. to embark and disembark the ship in all ports, excluding Castaway Cay . Please be advised that anyone under the age of 18 wishing to go ashore unaccompanied will be required to have a consenting parent, guardian or other responsible adult with them at the gangway, to provide their signature as authorization. Announcements about required documentation, etc. will be made onboard the ship before guests arrive in port. See Guest Services with any questions.

If you are flying , there are different requirements for documentation in place regarding identification. Please check https://www.tsa.gov/ for all the latest information.

Customs Regulations

Items that you purchased.
Items purchased in duty-free shops or on board the ship.
Items you have been requested to bring home for another person.
Repairs or alterations made to any articles taken abroad and returned, whether or not repairs or alterations were free of charge.
All items you intend to sell or use in your business. Promotional items and samples for Customs purposes are only those items that are valued at $1 or less.
If you are celebrating any occasion on your cruise and have gifts presented to you while abroad. These would be items such as wedding and birthday presents or inherited items.

The limits to the amount of duty-free merchandise differs depending on the cruise itinerary.

At the conclusion of your Disney Cruise, on guest per family must complete one U.S. Customs Declaration Form per family to submit to U.S. Customs upon return to U.S. soil. Forms will be placed in each stateroom prior to the conclusion of the cruise. Additional forms and forms in languages other than English are available form Guest Services onboard the ship.

For more information on Customs and regulations visit U.S. Customs . Instructions on how to fill out the form visit can be found here .

Below is a sample of what is allowed by Customs and Boarder Patrol. For a great resource and current information about other destinations, visit the Customs and Boarder Patrol website .

All Bahamian/Caribbean Itineraries not including USVI

There are lots of exciting duty-free shopping right on board in the shops on Disney the Disney Wonder, Disney Magic and Disney Dream as well as on shore in the ports! Each Guest returning from a country outside of the United States including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico and European Countries to the U.S. can bring back up to a total of U.S. $800 worth of duty-free merchandise (retail price). Each Guest 21 and older is limited to 2 liters of alcohol, of which 1 liter must be produced in the Bahamas and Guests 18 and older are limited to 200 cigarettes and 100 cigars (excluding Cuban cigars). These limits are mandated by U.S. law and are subject to change.

7 Night Eastern Caribbean Itinerary

Each Guest returning from the Eastern Caribbean to the U.S. can bring back up to a total of U.S. $1,200 worth of duty-free merchandise (retail price). However, no more than $800 in combined purchases can be made on board the ship, St. Maarten and Castaway Cay. Or, the entire U.S. $1,200 exemption may be used on purchases from St. Thomas alone. Each Guest 21 and older is limited to 5 liters of alcohol (only 1 liter can be acquired in St. Maarten or on the ship, with an additional 4 liters being exempt if purchased on St. Thomas, provided at least 1 liter is produced in the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each Guest 18 and older is limited to 5 cartons of cigarettes (only 1 carton can be acquired in St. Maarten or on the ship, with an additional 4 cartons being exempted if purchased on St. Thomas) and 100 cigars (excluding Cuban cigars). These limits are mandated by U.S. law and are subject to change.

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Please select a question:, do all passengers, including infants, need their passports, do i need to purchase travel insurance, what passport and visa requirements are there for entry into the us, what is the visa waiver program, what is esta, why might i need a visa, what is apis, i have just got married and my passport is still in my maiden name - is this ok.

All passengers, including infants, need to have their valid passports with them at all times throughout the journey.

Walt Disney Travel Company are unable to offer travel insurance at this time, however, we strongly recommend that you and your party are covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy for the duration of your holiday, to cover you for any injury or sickness including medical treatment. Proof of insurance may need to be seen before medical treatment is given.

We strongly advise that you check the latest visa and passport requirements prior to booking your holiday. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the US Embassy website or call 0203 608 6998.

For information on the Visa Waiver Program, please click the link below.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

There are various reasons as to why you might need a visa. Please visit the US Embassy website for more information on visa requirements when travelling to the United States and how to apply.

Advance Passenger Information (API) is information about passengers required by the US government prior to travel. It was originally introduced by the US authorities to speed up immigration procedures. • Full name (last name, first name, middle names if applicable) • Gender • Date of Birth • Nationality • Country of residence • Travel document type (normally passport) • Travel document number (expiry date and country of issue for passport) • Address of the first night spent in the US† We strongly advise you supply API before you arrive at the airport. This will minimise disruption at the airport check in area. Guests should be able to complete API on their airlines website prior to departure.

You can still travel to the United States on a passport showing your maiden name, as long as your name on both your ticket and passport match exactly. The USA will NOT ACCEPT a marriage certificate with your passport in your maiden name whilst your ticket shows your married name.

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Disney Cruise vs. Disney Aulani: Which Vacation is Right For Your Family?

Y ou’ve been to Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Or maybe both! You are looking to take another Disney vacation but maybe with a bit of a twist to change it up this time. Most Disney-loving families turn next to a cruise vacation aboard Disney Cruise Line or a trip to Hawaii to Aulani, Disney’s resort on the island of O’ahu.

I hear a lot from friends and readers who aren’t sure whether Aulani or a Disney Cruise is the best next step in their Disney travels. I’ve had the good fortune to try both on multiple occasions over the years, experiencing them with my kids at different ages and stages.

Both are travel experiences I’d highly recommend. Although this post pits Aulani vs. Disney Cruise, there really isn’t a winner and loser here. Rather, one trip may simply be better suited to the ages of your kids or the way your family likes to travel. What I hope to do is point out those sweet spots where you are likely to get more out of doing one of these trips compared to the other.

But if budget allows and you have the interest, I sincerely hope Disney-loving families eventually do both!

Check out some of my introductory posts to DCL and Aulani first if you don’t know all the basics:

Mistakes I Made on My First Disney Cruise
Comprehensive Review of Disney’s Aulani Resort
Tips for Disney Cruise Line with Toddlers and Preschoolers
Disney Aulani Splurges Worth the Money

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Similarities Between Disney Cruise Line & Aulani

Before I dive into the differences between these two vacations, let’s start with the similarities. Disney Aulani (which opened in Ko Olina on O’ahu in 2011) was very much modeled after Disney Cruise Line (which launched in 1998). In fact, Aulani was designed to bring much of the Disney Cruise experience to land. So it’s not surprising that the two have a lot more in common than they have different.

Both are luxury-level (translation: expensive) Disney vacations. If you are used to doing Disney on the cheap by staying in a value resort or an inexpensive off-property hotel at Disney World or Disneyland, you probably aren’t going to be able to do that with either Aulani or Disney Cruise.

To be sure, there are certainly ways to reduce the costs of both Aulani and DCL. But be realistic about the total bill you are going to be facing with either of these vacations.

Both Disney Cruise Line and Aulani offer a vacation experience that is very different from the Disney parks. A trip to Disney World or Disneyland means a lot of walking and logistics navigating theme park lines day after day. You’ll find a totally different daily schedule on an Aulani or DCL vacation.

The footprint and scope of both Aulani and the Disney Cruise ships are smaller. There are no attractions to ride. You can plan much less if you prefer. If you want to spend a day lounging by a pool or visiting a spa, there’s time for that. In fact, that’s really the point of these vacations.

Of course, there’s amazing Disney service and lots of Disney entertainment and characters to experience if you wish. But there’s far less theme park rat race. (Although I can’t promise you won’t encounter crowds and lines in several situations!)

Disney Cruise Line vs. Disney Aulani: Key Differences to Consider

So now on to the differences that matter between these two kinds of vacations. What factors you should consider in picking which one is right for you?

Where Are You Located?

Location, location, location. For families with limited vacation times and sometimes limited patience with little ones on planes, minimizing travel time is often an important factor in making vacation decisions.

For fellow West Coast families, the logistics of getting to Hawaii can be quite simple. And they are even simpler and cheaper now that Southwest Airlines has been flying to Hawaii the last several years. I’m a California girl and can travel to Hawaii on an easy 5 hour flight. As a result, Aulani feels “close” to me.

For families in the Midwest or on the East Coast, however, visiting Aulani is more of a challenge. A Hawaii trip can require multiple plane connections, maybe a redeye flight, and some serious jet lag and time zone changes. That may not be how you want to spend vacation – especially with babies or toddlers. I get it.

The majority of Americans will be much closer to a Disney Cruise Line vacation than an Aulani one. In that case, Disney Cruise may be a smarter choice. DCL currently has five ships (the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy, and the new Disney Wish). There are two more on the way (the Disney Treasure and a yet-to-be-named ship that will be Asia-based). Chances are one is stationed closer to you. Itineraries currently include the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, the West Coast of Mexico (Mexican Riviera), Australia, and several more.

Within just North America, cruises set sail out of Florida (Port Canaveral near Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), Galveston, New Orleans, San Diego, Vancouver, and New York City. Indeed, even as close as Aulani is for me, DCL’s San Diego sailings are much closer!

How Flexible Is Your Travel Schedule?

Even though DCL sailings are closer geographically, there is one countervailing factor to consider. Cruise itineraries start and end only on specific days. As a result, it may be harder to find a DCL sailing that fits your ideal schedule constraints. This is especially true given the fact that most travelers fly in a day before a cruise starts to minimize the risk of a flight delay making them miss the ship.

We are encountering just this very challenge as we plan for our Thanksgiving travels. One of my kids doesn’t have the full week off of school this year. We found there simply isn’t a Disney cruise that we could travel to and sail on in the time allotted without having her miss at least one day of school.

Related: Tips for Missing School to Travel

In contrast, Aulani offers the ultimate in flexibility. Guests can arrive and depart on any day of the year at any time. This has meant we’ve been able to squeeze in a visit to Aulani even on a long weekend where a nearby cruise simply wouldn’t have aligned with the kids’ school holidays. So for travelers who need flexibility, Aulani may ultimately be the more flexible of the two.

Do You Want a More All-Inclusive Experience?

Many families prefer to take all-inclusive vacations. They can take a lot of the guess work out of budgeting. Others much prefer to pay a la carte for what they actually consume and value. (For what it’s worth, I’m pretty ambivalent personally about this choice. I usually find myself on a la carte vacations most of the time.)

If you are the type of traveler who values the all-inclusive model, Disney Cruise Line is much closer to an all-inclusive vacation than Aulani. Food and a number of on-board activities and entertainment options are included in the cost of a cruise. There are extras like many drinks, shore excursions, and tips to watch out for, but they are fewer and farther between.

Aulani, on the other hand, is much more like a standard resort vacation. You pay for the room, but all of the food and drinks are an additional expense. Aulani has number of free activities like the amazing pools, waterslides, lazy river, and beach (and kids club – more on that below). But most of the premium experiences cost extra, including an evening show, Aulani’s Ka Wa’a Luau . And as you might imagine, everything else is simply more expensive in Hawaii.

Does Anyone in Your Family Get Motion Sickness?

This may seem like a small consideration but it matters in a big way. There is a small portion of the population for whom cruising is just not a realistic vacation choice thanks to motion sickness or related health issues.

I have a friend who took her 8 year old on a Disney Cruise for the first time only to discover that his stomach was radically incompatible with cruising. He was terribly seasick on the ship for four days straight. In fact, they headed straight to the ER to rehydrate him after docking. He didn’t have any history of other types of motion sickness so this reaction was quite an unfortunate surprise.

It’s impossible to know for sure whether any of your family members will be affected by cruises until you take one. The vast majority of people who don’t already have known motion sickness or related problems will be fine on any cruise, especially with a little Dramamine or SeaBands for backup. I personally have vertigo and have no problems even on small ships in big waves, although my father with Meniere’s disease can no longer cruise. But if this worries you and you have not cruised before, I’d steer clear of a long open water DCL itinerary as your first trip. It’s not much of a vacation for anyone if even one member of the family feels poorly.

If you have someone with known motion sickness issues of any significance, a cruise may be a gamble you just don’t want to take.

Do You Have a Big Family or Need more Space?

If you have more than two kids, you are probably already used to the challenge of standard hotel rooms. Most of them are built for four – if that. Upgrading to larger accommodations or even booking two rooms brings major increased costs.

Big families will likely find that both Aulani and Disney Cruise Line present the usual challenges. As you can probably imagine, however, space is a little easier to come by on land than on sea. Larger suites and condos are ultimately a bit more readily available at Aulani.

Aulani has some more flexible options for larger families because of its abundance of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) villas ( Related : Find out how we rented at Aulani using DVC points and saved big or rent from David’s Vacation Club Rentals yourself). One bedroom villas sleep up to 5 people. Families of 6 or more will need to upgrade to the two or three bedroom villas. To be sure, these premium rooms do not come cheap. But the villas have full kitchens and washer/dryers that make them very convenient and even cost-effective for larger families.

Disney Cruise Line does have some options that work for bigger families as well. DCL ships have a number of cabins that sleep 5. They are more limited in supply and may sell out before the rest of the cabins do, so early planning is required. And they are a tight squeeze even when you can find them.

Many larger families often opt to book two connecting cabins on Disney Cruise Line for more space. This limits the cabin types available to you depending on the ship, but can work well. And on cheaper itineraries like those in the Caribbean, this strategy often isn’t prohibitively expensive, although it can be to some destinations.

Do You Want or Need Childcare?

Both Disney Cruise ships and Disney’s Aulani Resort have complimentary kids clubs. (Truthfully, the clubs are built into the cost of the room/cabin. But I prefer to celebrate them as free.) While some of the DCL and Aulani childcare offerings used to be similar, that is not really the case anymore. It’s important to get up to speed on what the parameters are in 2023 to determine what will work best for your childcare needs.

Disney Cruise Line offers two connecting kids clubs, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, included in the cruise cost. Kids ages 3-12 are permitted to visit as long as they are potty trained. No reservations are required, and I’ve never yet seen a club reach capacity. The clubs are open for long hours that give parents a lot of flexibility any time of the day.

All the DCL ships also have a nursery aboard in addition to the kids clubs. The nursery takes kids from 6 months old through age 3 (note that 3 year olds can do either the Oceaneer Club & Lab or the nursery). At $9 per hour, this childcare option isn’t free, but it’s a good value for what it offers.

Aulani has never had a nursery for babies and toddlers like Disney Cruise Line, but it does have a kids club called Aunty’s Beach House . Aunty’s used to operate much more like Disney Cruise Line’s clubs. Parents could drop kids off on a whim for any length of time. Unfortunately, it no longer works this way in 2023.

Aunty’s currently admits kids ages 4-12 only (it used to take 3 years olds too). Reservations are essential and book up weeks in advance online. Kids are limited to one free 90 minute pre-set session per day, at either 8am, 10am, or noon. Aunty’s also is not open in the evenings, so it’s not an option for parents who want to use it for an adults-only date night.

My kids adored Aunty’s in the pre-2020 times. You can probably sense my frustration at the current pared back state of affairs. If you need or want meaningful included childcare, Aulani’s offering doesn’t make the grade at the moment. If you simply want a break from the kids here and there and can plan ahead, it will suit just fine.

The bottom line? If you have a baby or toddler who is younger than 4, there is no Disney-operated childcare option for you at Aulani. And for kids 4-12, the options are more limited at Aulani than on Disney Cruise Line. If you are like my family and often use kids clubs, this difference between Aulani and DCL can be a crucial tie-breaker.

Trips With Tykes Tip : Need a sitter for younger kids or a date night at Aulani? There’s an outside service we recommend with background checked nannies that serves the resort. Find out more about Nanny-Land’s services here and be sure to use Crown Code: TWT for $80 in savings off the registration fee.

Do You Have Teens?

When I first published this post, my kids were still in elementary school, so I had no experience yet with the teenage point of view on Aulani and DCL. But I just recently took a Disney cruise with my daughter for her 14th birthday and we visited Aulani a few months before that. So I grilled her hard on what she thought about both experiences for teens.

Both offer a safe atmosphere where parents can let teens roam and explore independently. While Aulani will always be her first love, she thought Disney Cruise Line currently delivers far more for the teen set.

Disney Cruises simply have so much more for teens to do. They have an abundance of night time programming and exclusive tween/teen clubs, Edge and Vibe. At Aulani, there used to be some programming for teens before 2020, but it hasn’t returned to the schedule. In my experience, Aulani appears to be drawing more families with little ones in recent years than it did before, so there may not be the demand for it ever to return. On our last trip to Aulani, we had a lot of family bonding and fun together, but my daughter grew a little restless not having an organized way to meet kids her age.

That said, Aulani would still work well for teens on a vacation with extended family and friends and built-in socialization. But DCL is better when traveling with just your immediate family because it is easier for teens to make and meet friends on board.

The verdict? If you have an active teen who likes to socialize, the safer bet is DCL. Further reading from fellow travel bloggers who have done both vacations with teens too:

Guide to Aulani with teens
What parents of teens will love about Disney Cruises

Do You Have a Passport?

As someone who has been lucky to travel internationally since I was a child, I sometimes forget that most Americans don’t have passports! At $130 per adult and $100 per child in 2023 (+ a $35 acceptance fees for new applicants), they are a big cost that can really add to a trip’s budget.

You obviously don’t need passports at all for an Aulani vacation (for the geographically challenged – yes, Hawaii is a US state). But passports are needed or at least highly advised for most Disney Cruise Line itineraries.

Technically, there are a few exceptions. You and/or your kids may be able to make do with a passport card (only $65) or ID and birth certificate if you are taking a closed loop cruise to many Caribbean countries, Canada or Mexico.

But I don’t recommend this approach at all. If your ship is diverted to a new port due to weather, you might not be able to get off. It’s also risky to travel internationally without a standard passport in the case of a medical or family emergency.

So, if you and your kids are not yet passport holders, definitely factor the cost of a passport into your Disney Cruise Line vacations as you make your travel decisions!

Do You Want to Do More than Disney?

One of the reasons many vacationers choose an Aulani or Disney Cruise Line vacation is that they offer so much more than Disney travel. They come with tried and true Disney service and amenities that families can trust to meet their travel needs. But they aren’t merely a theme park vacation. They are both much more focused on the destination.

It is certainly possible to do either of these vacations and stay entirely within the Disney bubble if you wish. You can go straight from Honolulu Airport to Aulani and never leave until it is time to go back to the airport. If you choose a DCL itinerary that doesn’t have many or any ports of call other than Castaway Cay (or if you don’t get off the ship!), you’ll have a mostly Disney-centric experience as well.

But it’s also possible to explore a lot more on either of these vacations. Aulani is a short skip and a hop away from Pearl Harbor. You can spend a day driving to the North Shore or visiting Waikiki Beach or hiking Diamond Head. You can even combine a few nights of an Aulani vacation with a stay elsewhere in the Hawaiian islands to both save money and see more sights.

And even if you do stay only within the resort, you’ll still learn plenty about the local culture. Disney has worked diligently to make Aulani authentically Hawaiian in its offerings. It’s more than just character meals and pixie dust.

With Disney Cruise Line you can quite literally see the world. Opt for a tropical vacation with a Caribbean or Mexican Riviera itinerary. Or you can explore culture and history in Europe or experience outdoor adventure in Alaska. The numerous options make a DCL trip even more of a destination-focused vacation that just happens to have magical Disney touches.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disney Cruises and Aulani

Still have questions about the Disney Cruise vs. Aulani debate? Here are a few more queries that may have crossed your mind.

Can I take a Disney Cruise TO Aulani?

If you want to have your cake and eat it too by taking a Disney Cruise that includes an Aulani vacation, is that possible? Not exactly.

As of 2023, Disney has added Hawaii to its cruising schedule, but only in a very limited fashion. One ship, the Disney Wonder, stops in Hawaii as it repositions from its summer Alaska itineraries down to Australia in the fall (and then as it returns to the West Coast in spring 2024).

The ship doesn’t stop at Aulani (and in fact, only the fall itinerary includes Honolulu). And these one way trips are 10 days each and quite pricey.

Conceivably, you could DIY an itinerary to do both DCL and Aulani, as follows:

Depart on the Disney Wonder on October 3, 2023 from Vancouver to Hawaii.
Debark the Disney Wonder on October 13, 2023 in Honolulu.
Transfer to Aulani for a stay of several nights.

But realistically, this isn’t going to work for the vast majority of family travelers. Sorry to disappoint!

What costs more: a Disney cruise or an Aulani vacation?

As you can probably imagine, there is no definitive answer to this question. A lot depends on the date you would like to travel. And for cruises, the price can vary based on the destinations involved and the ship.

To help illustrate general costs, I priced out sample 4 night vacations for a family of four on the same dates. Since Aulani doesn’t include food like DCL, I budgeted $250 for a family per day. Believe it or note, this is a reasonable Hawaii food budget if you plan to eat out most dinners but also plan to get some groceries or grab and go food at other times.

For a trip right after Labor Day this year (September 4-8, 2023), here is what the least expensive room/cabin runs for each:

Disney Magic 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami (inside cabin): $3452
Aulani $2242 (standard room with current 25% off fall discount) + $250/day food budget = $3242

Here’s another example for early next year (January 8-12, 2024) that includes higher end accommodations (a veranda cabin on Disney’s newest ship vs. a one bedroom villa at Aulani):

Disney Wish 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral (veranda cabin): $5063
Aulani $4100 (1 bedroom villa) + $250/day food budget = $5100

As you can see, the prices for Aulani and Disney Cruises are generally in the same ballpark. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. For example, Disney Cruises to Alaska tend to be quite a bit more expensive than other cruise destinations. Disney Aulani also tends to run more published seasonal sales where you can sometimes snag a lower nightly room price if you are very flexible.

At Aulani, you can also book a shorter stay to save money. A lot of travelers on a budget who still want to experience Aulani may want to book a one or two night stay and spend additional nights at a more moderately priced hotel elsewhere on O’ahu. Disney Cruises in North America, in contrast, are a minimum of a three night price commitment.

And of course, you also have to consider airfare costs and other add-ons your family might want to experience when making the full cost comparison.

Aulani vs. Disney Cruise: The Final Word

Whatever you decide between Aulani or Disney Cruise Line, I’m fairly confident you will experience a memorable family vacation.

We have enjoyed our times immensely at each and plan to return to both. Aulani was probably a better fit for kids when they were preschoolers/grade school age and Disney Cruise is working a bit better now as our kids get into the teen years. But that could change as both DCL and Aulani make adjustments to their offerings.

Let me know which one your family is choosing (or has chosen) first and why!

Disney Cruise Line & Aulani Vacation Deals!

If you aren’t renting DVC points through David’s Vacation Club Rentals for the Aulani villas, consider using Trips With Tykes partner, Get Away Today , to book your vacation package with additional perks. Get Away Today specializes in Disney travel and knows Aulani and Disney Cruise Line well (in addition to their bread and butter, Disneyland) so you can take advantage of their expert advice while snagging some deals.

For DCL, they’ll be able to snag you the best in discounts and other perks. For Aulani, their agents constantly monitor new sales and will apply deals and discounts if they are announced after you make an initial booking. Fill out this form for an Aulani vacation quote request from Get Away Today and this form for a Disney Cruise vacation quote request (and if you prefer to talk to them on the phone, tell them Leslie at Trips With Tykes sent you).

Disclosure: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, and Disney Cruise Line has provided my family with complimentary and/or discount accommodations and activities during some of our vacations to Aulani and aboard Disney Cruise Line. Most of our Aulani and DCL trips have been at our own expense. As always, all opinions are my own.

The post Disney Cruise vs. Disney Aulani: Which Vacation is Right For Your Family? appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

You’ve been to Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Or maybe both! You are looking to take another Disney vacation but maybe with a bit of a twist to change it up this time. Most Disney-loving families turn next to a cruise vacation aboard Disney Cruise Line or a trip to Hawaii to Aulani, Disney’s resort …

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Pregnant Disney Cruise Passenger Airlifted Off Ship by U.S. Coast Guard: See Video

The 'Disney Fantasy' was 180 miles out at sea when Coast Guard members responded to a medical emergency involving the 35-year-old patient

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

A video shared by the U.S. Coast Guard on April 16 shows a passenger aboard the Disney Fantasy being airlifted into a helicopter
In the clip, the U.S. Coast Guard successfully performs a medevac for the pregnant patient
The Disney Cruise Line ship was located 180 miles from land when the Coast Guard responded to the call

A pregnant passenger aboard the Disney Fantasy was airlifted from the ship after experiencing health complications on April 15.

The Disney Cruise Line vessel was 180 miles northwest of Puerto Rico in the Atlantic Ocean when the passenger “required a higher level of medical care ashore,” according to an April 16 press release from the U.S. Coast Guard.

A video of the incident shows the Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew executing a medevac in order to transport the patient safely to land by helicopter.

In the harrowing clip, an aircrew member gets lowered by rope onto the ship and at least seven crew members are seen carrying the woman on a stretcher. Per the release, the aircrew’s rescue swimmer then “prepared a rescue basket and litter to safely hoist the patient and cruise ship doctor aboard the aircraft.”

United States Coast Guard

The patient was met by local emergency medical responders at the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She was then transported to the local Centro Medico Hospital.

According to the release, Coast Guard members first got the call that there was a medical emergency aboard the ship on the morning of Monday, April 15.

“Watchstanders in Sector San Juan received a communication from the Disney Fantasy Monday morning requesting medevac assistance as the cruise ship was transiting 260 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico,” according to the release.

Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens stated in the release: “Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required. This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

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Echoing a similar sentiment, Ensign Michael Riccio, Coast Guard Sector San Juan operations unit leader for the case, said, “The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference.”

Disney Cruise Line did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.

Dramatic moment US Coast Guard rescues pregnant woman from Disney cruise ship

United States
Wednesday 17 April 2024 at 5:16pm

The US Coast Guard has released a dramatic video of a pregnant woman being airlifted from a Disney Fantasy cruise ship in order to receive emergency medical attention.

A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew rescued the 35-year-old woman who experienced health complications and required a higher level of medical care ashore.

Members of the Coast Guard based in Puerto Rico received a communication from the Disney Fantasy Monday morning requesting medevac assistance as the cruise ship was transiting 260 miles northwest of the island.

Coast Guard operations unit leader Michael Riccio praised the crews of both the helicopter and the cruise ship saying: "The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference."

Once on scene, the Coast Guard Jayhawk aircrew deployed their rescue swimmer aboard the cruise ship, who prepared a rescue basket and litter to safely hoist the patient and cruise ship doctor aboard the aircraft.

The Coast Guard aircrew transported the patient to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where local Emergency Medical Service personnel received and transported the patient to the local hospital.

"Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required," said Lieutenant Commander Todd Stephens.

"This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter."

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Preparing for Your Cruise – Frequently Asked Questions

What personal documents—including proof of citizenship—do I need to bring?

In order to board the ship at the start of a cruise, all Guests must provide a valid government-issued photo ID. For certain international itineraries, you will also need to present a valid passport and travel visa.

Passports If needed for your itinerary, Disney Cruise Line requests that you provide your passport number at least 75 days prior to the start of your vacation. Simply add the details to the Guest Information Form found in My Online Check-In . You may also save your passport information in your profile to use for future cruises.

Please note: All travelers, including U.S. Citizens and all foreign nationals, are required to have a valid passport to enter or re-enter the United States by air.

Other Travel Documents When you arrive at the port terminal, additional documents are required to start your cruise. Save time by using My Online Check-In to complete these documents in advance. Please be sure to bring the completed Online Check-In Port Arrival Form with you to the ship.

To find a list of specific documents required for your itinerary, read the Passport & Travel Documentation guidelines in My Reservations .

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Passport and Travel Documentation
Required Documents for All Nationalities. Original valid passport (valid at least 6 months after sailing has ended) Guests who are not citizens or permanent residents of Australia may be required to have a Visa for Australia. An entry Visa may also be required for New Zealand, based upon nationality.
Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?
When planning an Alaskan cruise with Disney, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, if you're flying into Vancouver to board the ship, you'll need a valid US passport for arrival in Canada. For those arriving in Canada by land or sea (before boarding the cruise), you'll need a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or ...
Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Line Documentation
The main reason people opt out of getting a passport is price. Currently the price for adults to get a new or renewal passport book is $135 (good for 10 years) and for children under age 16 is $100, (good for 5 years). There is also a $35 execution fee for each person.
Are Passports Required to Go on a Disney Cruise?
For families setting sail on one of Disney Cruise Line's sailings to the Eastern or Western Caribbean, Bermuda, or the Bahamas the following iD is required: A valid US Passport. A valid US Passport Card. A valid Trusted Traveler Card (Nexus, Sentri, Fast) Alternatively, you also have the option of travelling without a passport if you bring ...
Passport Requirements for a Disney Cruise
Planning a Disney Cruise? Make sure you have all the necessary passport requirements to ensure a smooth sailing experience. From passport validity to visa requirements and traveling with minors, this article covers everything you need to know. Additionally, we will discuss the documents needed for the cruise, including proof of citizenship, identification documents, travel authorization ...
Cruise Documentation
For certain international itineraries, you will also need to present a valid passport and travel visa. Passports if needed for your itinerary, Disney Cruise Line® requests that you provide your passport number at least 75 days prior to the start of your vacation. Simply add the details to the Guest Information Form found in 'My Online Check ...
Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?
A passport is highly recommended for all Disney cruises to the Caribbean, even if it is not required by the cruise line. Do children need a passport for a Disney cruise? Children under 16 years old can travel on a closed-loop cruise with just a birth certificate and government-issued ID, but a passport is recommended.
Do I Need a Passport for My Disney Cruise?
Regulations do vary by destination but in general here are the guidelines for most sailings that depart from and return to the same U.S. port: Original valid U.S. Passport. OR. Original state-issued birth certificate AND valid Government-issued photo ID. Note that hospital-issued birth certificates are not acceptable.
Here's When You Need (and Don't Need) a Passport to Cruise
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 ...
Cruises and Passports • Disney Cruise Mom Blog
Passports and Port Excursions. Another decision you must make, if you do cruise with your passport, is whether to take it with you when you leave the ship in port. Some ports require passports (check with DCL for which ones) but many do not. I cannot find official word from DCL on what they recommend, but I have heard that they recommend you ...
Do I Need a Passport on a Disney Cruise?
Answer: While it is HIGHLY recommended that all cruisers have a passport (more on this in a bit), passengers aboard the Disney Cruise Line to the Bahamas and Caribbean do not need to possess a passport. Adult travelers can substitute a government issued photo ID (such as a Driver's License) and a government issued or certified copy of a birth ...
Required Documentation and Customs Regulations
While a passport is not always required for a cruise, it is highly recommended. If an unexpected emergency arose requiring a guest to fly home from a port, the guest with a passport already has the proper documentation. The guest without proper documentation, is not going to be able to fly home. ... At the conclusion of your Disney Cruise, on ...
Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?
While some cruises may not require a passport (if your Disney cruise starts and ends at the same US port), the US Department of State recommends always traveling with a passport. International plane travel always requires a passport, so you'd need a passport to fly home in an emergency. Smart travelers will be prepared for the unexpected ...
Disney Cruises Passport Requirements for Cruises
Disney Cruises Passport Requirements for Cruises. Passports are required for all travelers, including citizens of U.S. and Canada, who enter or re-enter the United States by air, land or sea. Regarding Disney Cruises to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas and Bermuda, there is a notable exception to this US passport rule ...
Disney Cruise Line
Book smart and get your choice of a FREE bonus offer when you book with Cruises.com instead of booking directly with the cruise line. We give you our exclusive bonus offers, plus all qualifying cruise line offers, plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits . Book online at Cruises.com or call 800-288-6006 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
The USA will NOT ACCEPT a marriage certificate with your passport in your maiden name whilst your ticket shows your married name. Frequently asked questions about travel documentation (us sailings). If you can't find the answer to your question, please call our Disney Experts freephone on 0800 169 0742.
Disney Cruise vs. Disney Aulani: Which Vacation is Right For Your Family?
Disney Magic 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami (inside cabin): $3452. Aulani $2242 (standard room with current 25% off fall discount) + $250/day food budget = $3242. Disney Wish 4-Night Bahamian ...
Do Kids Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?
Typically, it is advised that you bring a passport for yourself and any children traveling with you. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency offers a helpful guide to passport requirements ...
Pregnant Disney Cruise Passenger Airlifted Off Ship by U.S. Coast Guard
The Disney Cruise Line vessel was 180 miles northwest of Puerto Rico in the Atlantic Ocean when the passenger "required a higher level of medical care ashore," according to an April 16 press ...
Dramatic moment US Coast Guard rescues pregnant woman from Disney
The US Coast Guard has released a dramatic video of a pregnant woman being airlifted from a Disney Fantasy cruise ship in order to receive emergency medical attention. A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk ...
Necessary Travel Documents
A: In order to board the ship at the start of a cruise, all Guests must provide a valid government-issued photo ID. For certain international itineraries, you will also need to present a valid passport and travel visa. Passports If needed for your itinerary, Disney Cruise Line requests that you provide your passport number at least 75 days ...

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Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Line Documentation

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What identification documents will I need to sail?

What are the reasons why I wouldn’t want to get a passport?

What is a passport card? How is it different from a passport book?

I’m going on an Alaskan DCL cruise and see (below) that there are different rules for different arrival methods. Why does it matter how I get to Vancouver?

I’d like to get a passport, but my cruise is coming up soon. Is there any way to get a passport quickly?

My child does not have a passport or a Government-issued photo ID, does this mean they can’t sail?

Can I use my Social Security Card for cruise ID?

I have a baby. Are there special circumstances for getting a passport for an infant?

What is the six-month validity rule for passports?

I’m getting married and am going on a cruise for my honeymoon. Can I still sail if my new married name doesn’t match my passport?

All this passport stuff is confusing me. Can anyone help?

How do I get my ID documents to Disney Cruise Line?

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What if I’m not going a US-based closed loop cruise? Do the rules change?

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Do You Need a Passport for a Disney Cruise?

Key Takeaways

Passport Requirements for Disney Cruises

Passport for Children

Travel Documentation for Disney Cruises

Birth Certificates and ID

Traveling with Minors

Booking a Disney Cruise without a Passport

Domestic Cruise Options

Cruise to U.S. Territories

Special Considerations for Non-Passport Holders

Tips for Passport Preparation

Applying for a Passport

Passport Renewal

Passport Validity and Expiration

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for a Disney cruise to the Caribbean?

Do children need a passport for a Disney cruise?

What travel documentation is required for a Disney cruise?

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Where to cruise without a passport

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Acceptable forms of ID

U.S. citizens 16 and older

U.S. citizens younger than 16