p&o caribbean cruises no fly

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02380 658 386

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No-Fly Caribbean

3rd January 2026

Prices From £ 2,155 pp

Are you ready to see the world in widescreen? Our newest and most innovative ship, Iona was designed to invite the outdoors in. Gazing out from the stunning SkyDome, three-tier glass Grand Atrium or the brand-new Conservatory Mini-suite cabins, you’re never far from a spectacular view of the ever-changing horizon on Iona’s cruise holidays.

Take the hassle out of your holiday search and let our knowledgeable cruise agents find you the perfect cruise by phone! Call 02380 658 386

Discover “ Britain’s favourite cruise line ” for yourself!

Your Itinerary

• Date   Port Arrive Depart
• 03/01/2026 Southampton – –
• 04/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 05/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 06/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 07/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 08/01/2026 Santa Cruz de Tenerife – –
• 09/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 10/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 11/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 12/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 13/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 14/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 15/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 16/01/2026 Saint Kitts – –
• 17/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 18/01/2026 Bridgetown – –
• 19/01/2026 Bridgetown – –
• 20/01/2026 Saint George's – –
• 21/01/2026 Castries – –
• 22/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 23/01/2026 Saint John's – –
• 24/01/2026 Tortola – –
• 25/01/2026 Sint Maarten – –
• 26/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 27/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 28/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 29/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 30/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 31/01/2026 At Sea – –
• 01/02/2026 Santa Cruz de Tenerife – –
• 02/02/2026 At Sea – –
• 03/02/2026 At Sea – –
• 04/02/2026 At Sea – –
• 05/02/2026 La Coruña – –
• 06/02/2026 At Sea – –
• 07/02/2026 Southampton – –

Cabins & Prices

Ship features.

Aft and Forward Suites are always special, giving guests the ultimate experience of relaxation in their own boutique-hotel haven. A luxurious space is created as the doors of interconnecting rooms open fully to create a larger, brighter studio ambience.

The furniture and material selection is focused on guest relaxation and comfort: light tones create the additional spacious experience. Furniture, including sofas, ottomans and lounge chairs, is upholstered in sands, beiges and off-whites. In the spacious bathroom, the double sink units set in stunning black marble are a striking focal point, surrounded by elegant white marble walls and floor tiling.

As with all suites, guests benefit from the clever configuration of different interior zones with separate lounge and bedroom areas, segregated dressing areas and spacious en suite bathrooms. All suites have direct access to large balconies and benefit from a range of exclusive Suite services, such as a personal Butler and a range of in-suite dining options.

Conservatory Mini-Suite

The Conservatory Mini-suite cabin is an exciting new addition to the choice of accommodation and a signature option on Iona.

The concept brings the outdoors in with a personal and versatile conservatory-style room that forms an extension to the cabin. It offers great flexibility and creates a distinctive relaxation and socialising zone. This space, which includes stylish L-shaped seating, can be closed off or left open according to the time of day or mood.

By day or in the evenings, the room opens out fully onto the balcony. With a direct connection to the sea, the space is cool and shaded – and perfect for chilling out in. In the evenings, it transforms into a spacious environment for private celebrations and socialising over pre-dinner drinks with friends and family. Leading directly onto the balcony, all configurations of this flexible space offer glorious seascape views.

Balcony Cabins

The sea is the star on Iona and the Balcony accommodation gives guests the chance to enjoy it to the full, whether travelling solo or in a larger group.

There are four options to choose from – Deluxe (the most spacious), Balcony, Single and Standard Balcony – all of which offer an extended private space in which to relax and unwind. From enjoying a cup of tea in the morning to watching the sun set with a drink, guests can relax in their own private area. Balcony cabins also allow greater flexibility for outdoor dining using the Room Service menu.

For larger groups and families, the internal spaces have been skilfully designed to include attractive built-in drop-down bunk beds and flexible sleeping arrangements that maximise space and seating by day and provide comfortable bedding by night.

Sea View Cabins

Here, too, the design and choices of colours and materials optimises the seaside feel. Porthole mirrors, blue feature walls and soft furnishings and accessories in gold and white textiles bring a sense of light and relaxation to the interior space.

The clever design of these cabin types maximises storage options and all cabins boast the personal touches that create a stylish and homely atmosphere – including tea and coffee-making facilities (with tasty biscuits provided daily), a well-stocked fridge, in-cabin TV with a host of channels to choose from, and a bathroom boasting soft cotton towels and quality toiletries courtesy of The White Company.

Inside Cabins

Deck 19 – Sky Deck

Deck 18 – Panorama Deck

Deck 16 – Lido Deck

Deck 8 – Promenade Deck

Deck 7 – Parade Deck

Deck 6 – Gala Deck

The Keel and Cow

From breakfast till late, this is the place to relax with friends, beautifully crafted gastropub food and a fine collection of draught and bottled beers and craft ales. Will it be our signature burger, classic fish and chips, pie and mash or a prime steak from the dry-aging cabinet? Hard choices. Great food.

Prepare your taste buds for a flavour-filled adventure. In stylish and sumptuous surroundings, Sindhu’s expert chefs will take you on a delicately spiced odyssey that celebrates the best of contemporary Indian cuisines. You can also make a date on sea days to enjoy a delicious tiffin-style lunch.

The Glass House

Sit back with a glass of specially selected wine as daring aerial artists perform before your eyes. This welcoming and sophisticated wine bar boasts a prime spot in the Grand Atrium, a cracking selection of world wines hand-picked by wine expert Olly Smith and delicious food.

Horizon Restaurant

Whatever you fancy, whatever the time of day, head for the Horizon Restaurant. The all-day dining venue offers an incredible variety of food from home and around the world to suit every appetite and dietary need. The self-service restaurant is spacious, elegant and relaxed, with ocean vistas on the side.

The Olive Grove

Everyone loves the sunshine, and here we serve it up, Mediterranean style, all day long. Pull up a chair and take your pick from the region’s iconic favourites, from Spanish paella to Moroccan lamb tagine and grazing boards of tasty regional specialities –all perfect for enjoying with friends and family.

Head to The Quays for informal dining options to suit every mood. This multi-venue dining piazza offers an amazing array of eateries and restaurants and is a lively hub for socialising over food and watching the world go by. There’s a fun street-food atmosphere with plenty of buzz, theatre and colour adding to the beachfront promenade vibe. With access onto the Promenade Deck, outdoor dining is available too. It’s all about flexible, fun, family-friendly food – the perfect place for a quick snack, light lunch or informal dinner.

Find scoopfuls of holiday happiness at this family-friendly gelateria. Snowflake Luxury Gelato blends the best of British and Italian cultures in a range of artisan flavours. A traditional cone with your choice of toppings? A gelato afternoon tea, cookie or sundae? With so many treats, you’re sure to be back for more.

The Beach House

For relaxed dining, this family favourite always gets the thumbs up. Easy does it for Caribbean and Southern American classics with a playful twist. From hanging kebabs and sizzling cook-your-own steaks to delectable chocolate fondues, you’ll want to dive right in.

Vistas Café Bar

Feast your eyes on sea views as you savour exquisite sweet treats, invigorating Costa coffees and a selection of teapigs™teas. In this buzzing location at the heart of the ship you’ll also be treated to pop-up performances and daring displays from aerial artists.

The Limelight Club

This supper-club venue is a fixed favourite. After the daytime dancing classes, The Limelight Club is the place to be for adult-only evening dining and entertainment. The club exclusively hosts established and emerging vocalists and is the dedicated venue for resident performers and the house band. As the entertainment gets underway, guests enjoy a unique dining experience: a themed multi-course menu is served at intervals throughout the show.

The Epicurean

Dining experiences don’t come any finer than Epicurean. Marvel as each exquisite dish, inspired by classic British ingredients and given a modern twist by expert chefs, is presented at your table. The experience is complete with fine wines, flawless service, elegant surroundings and stunning ocean views.

The Chef’s Table

Don your finery for an exclusive evening of fine dining. On Celebration Nights, The Chef’s Table celebrates British and regional cuisines with a unique menu created by Marco Pierre White and wine selected by Olly Smith.

One of Iona’s signature venues, Taste 360 is a street food style dining experience on deck, where you can take in the panoramic views while trying different flavours from around the globe with our rotating menus. José will create exciting Spanish flavours for Iona’s holidays to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands.

The Grand Atrium

Meet, dine, relax and be entertained. The Grand Atrium is an incredible space hosting talks and cooking demos by day and enthralling live entertainment by night, from impromptu musical performances to breathtaking aerial shows. Take your seat at one of cafés, bars and restaurants to take in the action, and the ocean views.

Emerald Bar

Glamour, good times and glorious exploratory cocktails combine in this buzzing Grand Atrium jewel. Will it be an expertly crafted daiquiri, or a playful creation with a surprising twist? And get set for even more wow-factor moments as daring aerial artists work their magic above.

Salcombe Gin Distillery

Let the adventure be-gin

We’ve collaborated with award-winning Salcombe Distilling Co. to create a smooth, one-of-a-kind gin available on board our ships. And with a name that means ‘star of the sea’, is there a more fitting choice for the gin that was first produced in the world’s first-ever distillery at sea, on board Iona?

Meet Marabelle Gin, the star of the sea

Raise a glass to Marabelle Gin, a sea-inspired blend created exclusively for P&O Cruises by Salcombe Distilling Co. This exciting partnership marries British maritime heritage and a love of ocean adventures in a beautifully crafted gin. From the name and the design of the bottle to the ingredients, every detail has been carefully thought through.

The first distillery at sea

Marabelle Gin is distilled by a gin specialist in Iona’s very own gin still, Columba – the world’s first distillery at sea. As well as being served in beautifully crafted cocktails, Marabelle Gin will also be bottled and labelled to be sold on board. If you are holidaying on Iona and spot a gold seal on your bottle, you’ll know this was handcrafted in Columba.

A beautifully balanced recipe

And don’t forget: bottles of Marabelle Gin can be purchased on board all of our ships – a perfect gift to take home. Bottles of Marabelle with our blue seals were distilled by Salcombe Distilling Co. at its beautiful waterside still in Devon, ready to share and serve. These are also available to purchase direct from their website. Cheers!

Headliners Theatre

Headliners Theatre is perfect for a fun-filled night out on board. Classic yet contemporary, it offers a sleek and sophisticated theatre experience. Plush, comfortable seating and the latest LED technology deliver the ‘wow’ factor, while a two-deck-high auditorium on decks 6 and 7 ensures everyone has the best view in the house.

Ocean Studios

The whole family will love an outing to Ocean Studios. Our four-screen cinema complex offers a warm welcome, comfortable seating and a premium cinema experience. With screenings throughout the day, there’s always an option to see an age-appropriate blockbuster or family classic – complete with popcorn, ice cream and snacks, of course.

A place to immerse yourself in the seductive sounds of an array of musical genres that have inspired musical director Gary Barlow over the years, The 710 Club on Iona is a sophisticated bar crafted to Gary’s creative vision.

Atmospheric and low-lit, The 710 Club will serve up live music from resident band The 710s with an unmistakably vintage vibe, stylish cocktails and the most important ingredient of all; a little escapism, to ensure the good times continue long into the night.

Get cosy beneath the intimate low lighting of The Limelight Club and prepare yourself for a show-stopper of an evening at this ticketed event exclusively for adults. Feast your senses on entertainment provided by some of Britain’s best-loved performers and relish in a three-course culinary experience that’ll have your taste-buds tingling.

Viva theme night – The Limelight Club

Tonight is Viva! A dynamic music event that is guaranteed to get you on your feet, and light a fire in your soul. Latin music has got the whole world dancing with its passion, love for life and rhythm.

The Club House

Everyone will love the daytime entertainment on offer at this bright and spacious venue, from guest speakers to live music, family entertainment and game shows. When the lights go down at night, get ready to party with DJ nights, comedians and great music from our resident band Pulse.

Not only home to daytime relaxing by the pool, bespoke and exclusive aerial shows, guest DJ sets and more, SkyDome also hosts IGNITE – our upbeat party-starter with a DJ set produced by Alex James, laser show and live music.

SkyDome offers a relaxed, poolside environment by day, with tantalising dining and drinking options. In the evening, the space seamlessly transitions into a must-visit entertainment venue, showcasing spectacular aerialist displays and hosting live performances and DJ party nights under the stars.

Kick off your holiday with IGNITE! Watch as SkyDome lights up under the night sky with laser shows, a killer DJ set producedby Alex James, and live music for you to dance the night away. This upbeat venue is the perfect place to get into the holiday mood.

I Believe in a Thing Called Rock

Think everything from Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Guns N’ Roses to The Killers and you might just get a flavour of our epic rock night. SkyDome swaps DJ sets for killer electric guitar, a thumping drum beat and just a hint of a rebellious streak… With our house band Pulse and Headliners Theatre Company, the energy will be electric. Embrace your inner rock child, dust off your best air guitar and strap in for a night of absolute classics.

Aerial Shows

We’re collaborating with international entertainment company Creativiva – specialists in aerial stunts, acrobatic acts, unique sets, elaborate costumes, avant-garde storytelling and more. We’ll have bespoke live shows in SkyDome and the Grand Atrium.

Eyes will widen. Gasps will sound. Attention will be rapt. This is the power of Creativiva.

Brand new for P&O Cruises, we’re working with international entertainment company, Creativiva to offer something completely different for Iona. We’ve bespoke Creativiva-original shows coming to SkyDome and the Grand Atrium. You’ll find yourself transported to another world; filled with acrobatics, aerial acts, physical theatre, dance, music… not to mention flamboyant costumes, impressive sets and much, much more.

Lose yourself in a different world

Holiday on Iona and beyond the bands, the theatre shows and the cinema, you’ll find a brand-new immersive experience. Will you wander into the aviary? The Arena of Time? Or perhaps stumble upon two officers lost in a daydream… Lose yourself in a different world; one where acrobats descend from the rooftops, fly through the air, whirl in blurring rings, tie themselves in knots, balance beyond the realms of possibility and leave you spellbound in their midst.

Anderson’s Bar

Boasting our first stunning boutique gin still and a menu of stylish tipples, this intimate bar is the perfect spot for cosy drinks by day and night. Relax as our unique gin, Marabelle Gin, is distilled before your eyes. Then, it’s time to try – or even make it – for yourself.

The Crow’s Nest

Savour glorious ocean views and signature timeless classic cocktails with a twist. By day, the mood is restful for reading and reveries. By night, things take a sophisticated turn –the live pianist, moody vocals and stylish late-lounge vibe making it a popular haunt for night owls.

Brodie’s

Get set for good times in this lively, sociable pub. Hosting an incredible range of British and international bottled beers, ciders and real ales, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to crafted brews. There’s also a great selection on tap, plus wines and traditional snacks if you need a nibble or two.

And relax… This stylish bar at the aft end of the Promenade Deck is the perfect spot to chill out in the sunshine or shade by day, with cool drinks served at your table. Later, watch the sun set with a cocktail or make a night of it under the stars with all the fun of The Club House next door.

If you’ve energy left from exploring ashore, why not try a new sport –archery, maybe? Or a swing in the golf nets? What about some friendly family competition playing football, basketball, tennis or cricket? The Sports Arena is perfect for burning off the holiday ice creams!

The Spa on Iona

Iona’s spa is a haven of transformative wellness with endless opportunities to enjoy the finely curated collection of authentic destination-inspired moments filled with exceptional service and unique experiences. Set out in a beautifully designed space that plays out harmoniously across decks 5 and 6, the aesthetic is understated and elegant. Beyond, ocean views soothe and inspire in equal measure. In short, it’s the perfect atmosphere for unadulterated mindful relaxation.

Thermal Suite

Explore heated loungers, a therapeutic sauna, sensory steam rooms and experiential showers. Other features include a hydrotherapy pool with massaging jets and air recliners.

Beauty & Wellness Treatments

A holiday gives you time and space to take care of yourself, and there’s no better way to do so than with beauty and wellness therapies that put the focus on relaxation and restoration. Expert therapists and aestheticians are on hand to get you glowing. You’ll find a wide range of premium treatments that are favourites across the wider fleet, from aroma stone therapy and Swedish massages to facials and Fire & Ice pedicures and manicures.

Salon Services

Whether you’re looking for a spruce-up or a completely new look, use a sea day to treat yourself. Iona’s team of stylists, aestheticians and make-up specialists are ready to help you shine.

The Retreat

The Retreat on Iona boasts a commanding spot on deck 18 above The Crow’s Nest. This signature feature is a quiet haven in which you can reconnect with nature, yourself or your loved ones – the epitome of calm where you can relax and enjoy the sights floating past. The paid-for outside space, which is exclusively for adults, boasts two infinity whirlpools with magnificent uninterrupted views, plus stylish day beds, hammocks, a bar, juice station and comfortable seating areas.

Gym & Fitness Studio

Whether you want to maintain your fitness regime or start a new one, Iona’s on-board gym and fitness studio has what you need for a workout that works. Expert fitness professionals are on hand to guide you, whether it’s a one-to-one personal training session or a group class. If you want to do your own thing, they’ll show you how to use the latest equipment and gym technologies, such as Technogym innovation, free weights and exercise bikes, to help you perform at your best.

Shore Excursions

Are you a sightseer, a mountain hiker, an art lover or a foodie? Perhaps you’re a sun bather, a paddle boarder, a wine taster or a photographer? Or maybe you like to mix things up – day to day, or even moment to moment?

No information available

Other Details

Adults Only: Kids allowed

Childrens Facilities: Available

Nursery: Nursery

Smoking: Some

Gratuities: Gratuities are included in the price so you can relax knowing that it’s all taken care of.

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P&O Cruises launches Summer ’24 programme with a range of no-fly cruises available

by Danielle | Mar 24, 2022 | No Fly Cruise News , No Fly Cruises Blog , P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises new series of holidays for summer 2024 will include popular “island” itineraries, the scenic Norwegian fjords and extended time in many destinations to maximise the new programme of tailored shore experiences.There are also a wide variety of no-fly cruise options available!

New ship Arvia (joining the fleet in December 2022) will offer two different 14-night western Mediterranean itineraries, each with six ports of call. One will include Italy, Spain and France with calls to La Spezia (for Florence and Pisa) and Barcelona while the other will be Spain and France with calls to Barcelona and Valencia.

Iona will continue to spend the summer season in the Norwegian fjords for seven night itineraries of spectacular scenic cruising with calls to the world heritage port of Geiranger, as well as Olden and Alesund.

Britannia’s summer programme will include seven night Norwegian fjords and 14-night western Mediterranean “island” cruises to the Balearics with extended calls to Palma and Ibiza and one itinerary including Cagliari in Sardinia. These itineraries also include many new shore experiences to discover the beach clubs and off the beaten track vineyards, adrenaline activities and countryside of Ibiza.

Short breaks to Amsterdam are part of Ventura’s summer programme as well as The Canary Islands, Iberia and southern cruise breaks. These holidays include longer time in the ports of Lisbon and Amsterdam to make the most of these popular capital cities.

Aurora and Arcadia, both mid-sized ships, will offer longer “discovery” itineraries for experienced cruisers. Arcadia will sail a 16-night Iceland cruise in June ’24 with an overnight call in Reykjavik and a 30 night Canada & USA cruise in September ’04 with overnight calls in Boston and New York to see the sights in these vibrant cities.

Tangier and Casablanca will be part of Aurora’s 18-night western Mediterranean cruise in April ’24 while the ship’s Arctic Circle cruise in October ’24 includes Iceland and the North Cape and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

Pre-registration for summer ’24 holidays is available from March, 23, 2022, and on general sale from March 30, 2022.

Example itineraries include:

Arvia – Mediterranean, 14 nights, £999

14-night cruise on Arvia (K409) from £999 per person. Departing April 28, 2024 the price includes kids’ clubs, full board meals and entertainment on board. Departing from and returning to Southampton, ports of call are La Coruna, Palma, La Spezia, Marseille, Barcelona and Cadiz.

Iona – fjords, seven nights, £529

Seven-night cruise on Iona (G410) from £529 per person. Departing April 20, 2024 the price includes kids’ clubs, full board meals and entertainment on board. Departing from and returning to Southampton, ports of call are Stavanger, Olden, Alesund and Haugesund.

Ventura – Canary Islands,  14 nights, £999

14-night cruise on Ventura (N424) from £999 per person. Departing September 14, 2024 the price includes kids’ clubs, full board meals and entertainment on board. Departing from and returning to Southampton, ports of call are Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon.

Aurora – short break,  3 nights, £399

Three-night cruise on Aurora (R408) from £399 per person. Departing May 15, 2024 the price includes full board meals and entertainment on board. Departing from and returning to Southampton and calling at Zeebrugge for Bruges.

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  Yes, it is possible to cruise to the Caribbean from the UK without flying. Several cruise lines offer transatlantic cruises that depart from the UK and sail to the Caribbean. These cruises typically start from major UK ports such as Southampton, and the journey...

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Which cruise lines leave from the UK?

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Protect Your Trip »

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?

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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.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

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