Going on a cruise is a wonderful vacation experience that you will never forget. One of the great things about most cruises is that nearly everything is taken care of; there is no need to worry about anything. Still, cruise travel can be quite different from normal travel and certain things need to be taken into consideration. One common cruise question is, “Do you need expedited new passports for cruises?”
The traveler that is only traveling within the United States borders will still not need a passport. International travel, regardless of where it goes, will generally require that every passenger has a passport in order to be able to get off of the boat in the varying countries. It is always best to do some research and see exactly what travel laws are pertinent to the trip that is being considered.
First and foremost, everyone needs to understand that many of the travel laws have changed quite dramatically over the last year or so. Prior to June 2009, there was no need to have a passport to travel to places like Mexico or Canada. Because of many of the events over the last ten years or so, these rules have now changed.
Obviously, passports are required for any cruise that has an international final destination. This also applies to all border countries. For example, a passport would be necessary for a one-way cruise from Miami to Cancun, although round-trip cruises have different laws.
Additionally, any cruise that starts in another country would require the use of a passport. This should be pretty obvious because a cruise starting in another country often requires international air travel. There are never exceptions for the need of a passport when it comes to air travel. Passports are also now required for all border crossings, so a passport is necessary for any cruise departing from an international port.
Currently, many cruise lines offer what are called “closed loop voyages.” Usually, a closed loop voyage refers to a cruise that starts and ends in the same port. However, in terms of the legal implications, a closed loop voyage can refer to any cruise that starts and ends in the same country. Closed loop voyages have a unique set of passport laws.
Passports do not always have to be obtained for a closed loop cruise. If the trip is going to the Virgin Islands, Bermuda or several other specific destinations, the passport may not be necessary. However, it may be a safe bet to carry one just in case. If this type of trip is being planned, just ask the travel agent or check the Internet for travel laws as they pertain to these specific destinations.
It is important to stay current on any USA passports law changes. Passports for cruises to border countries or certain Caribbean Islands were not always necessary but under the new laws, with the exception of closed loops, people without expedited U.S. passports could be denied access. It certainly would not be any fun to be stuck on the boat, so it is always best to be informed and prepared.
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