Do we need passports to go on a cruise?

Question

I'll be 40 at the end of January and just seems like there isn't any place in the continental US that is warm enough that time of year to lay on the beach. Any suggestions? Otherwise, do we need a passport?

Answer 1

i am going on a western Caribbean cruise in Feb of '08 and needed to get my passport. i just got mine back in 3 weeks. i sent for it from the local court house the thursday before Labor Day and received it back in the mail this past friday. go to www.travel.state.gov and find out the closest location to you. some locations have photos taken on site as well.

Answer 2

Yes, you need a passport to go on a cruise. Its the same if you're going in an airplane -- you need a passport.

Answer 3

Yes

you will have to have a passport to get back in the states from a cruise.  otherwise - go to Hawaii.

Answer 4

The requirement for passports for sea travel is set to go into effect Jan. 2008.  There has been talk of a delay in that date, but nothing official yet. Also, you could consider going to the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico...you do not need a passoport to travel there.  See 1st website below for all passport info.

Answer 5

I think it depends on where you go.  I went on a cruise 7 years ago to Cozumel Mexico and I didn't have a pass port.  All I needed was a valid picture ID (drivers license) and my birth certificates.  My advice to you is to call the cruise line your going throw and ask them.

Answer 6

Yes... you need a passport.  The good news is, the backlog is cleared up so you should be able to get one in 6 weeks or less now.

Answer 7

Having just returned from my second cruise this year I can tell you that all cruise lines will advise you to have your passport with you.  That said, there are still several ports-of-call that don't yet require a passport, instead accepting birth certificates.  The Bahamas is one such location.  By January of next year, though, a passport will be required even there.  It's a good idea to just go ahead and get your passport to avoid any delays.  Passport application and approval for US citizens is not difficult, too costly, nor that time consuming.  Start with your local post office (check the internet for locations that specifically take passport applications).