I'm going on a cruise in Feburary 2008, do i need a passport?

Question

we are leaving from galveston and going to cozumel and progreso, yucatan.

My boyfriend's mom said we need one.

My mom said right now they are only required to fly.

I saw this online

CRUISE TRAVEL

The U.S. Government will soon require all of our guests (including U.S. citizens) to be in possession of a valid passport when traveling on any Carnival cruise. This requirement may become effective as early as Summer 2008.

Carnival strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport during their cruise. This will enable guests to fly from the U.S. to meet their ship at the first port should they miss their scheduled embarkation; and allow guests that must debark the ship before their cruise ends to fly back to the U.S. without significant delays and complications. Additionally, it will greatly help to expedite their debark process

I would really like to save 200 bucks, but if need to buy them i will.

should i purchase them?

Answer 1

I would definately have a passport.  I heard they are required but I don't know if that is true or not.  Have a great worry free trip!

Answer 2

Best place to read all about this is the US Dept of State.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbp...

LAND AND SEA TRAVEL

The following summarizes information available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

JANUARY 31, 2008

U.S. and Canadian citizens will need to present either a WHTI-compliant document, or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, plus proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. DHS also proposes to begin alternative procedures for U.S. and Canadian children at that time.

SUMMER 2008

At a later date, to be determined, the departments will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have either a U.S. passport; a U.S. passport card; a trusted traveler card such as NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI; a valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or a valid U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders.

The implementation date will be determined based on a number of factors, including the progress of actions undertaken by the Department of Homeland Security to implement the WHTI requirements and the availability of WHTI compliant documents on both sides of the border. DHS and DOS expect the date of full WHTI implementation to be in the summer of 2008. The precise implementation date will be formally announced with at least 60 days notice.

Answer 3

Yes - you will definately need a passport in Feb 08.  They will be required beginning Jan 01, 2008 for all travel outside the U.S.

Answer 4

The exact date they are going to be required to cruise to the Caribbean and Mexico has not been set. Check with the cruise line to be 100% sure but a government issued photo ID and certified birth certificate should get you on the ship.

Answer 5

I think you might just incase, and also for future travels, I mean I don't know how muck you travel but I do a lot so I need it, but I have friends who don't as much as I do. But I'm only ten and I've seen the world so you probably might not listen to me.

Answer 6

You will be required to have a passport in May 2008, but you should be safe. To be honest with you, it wouldn't hurt to get one. Once you go on one cruise, you will want to cruise again and again. Plus they are good for 10 years.

If you choose not to get one, you must have a drivers license (or valid ID) and your birth certificate.

happy sailing!

Answer 7

Yes you will need one. The passport requirement rule for cruises takes effect January 31, 2008. You can apply at your local post office, apply now to avoid any delays.