Cruising with your pet is not a common practice, but a new dog-friendly cruise is offering an exciting opportunity for passengers to set sail with their furry companions. However, this type of pet-friendly sailing remains the exception, with most cruise lines imposing strict policies regarding animals onboard.
“Generally, most cruise lines only allow service animals,” says Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet. “Emotional support animals, however, are not permitted as they don’t meet the criteria of service animals under most regulations.”
French advises passengers to thoroughly review cruise line policies before booking a trip. For example, Carnival Cruise Line permits only service dogs. According to Carnival, a service dog is specifically trained to assist a person with a disability, and passengers must ensure their service animal meets certain requirements. This includes providing the dog’s own food and using designated relief areas during the trip. Additionally, the dog must be kept on a leash at all times.
Service animals also typically require specific documentation, such as proof of training and vaccination records. Some cruise lines may even restrict where the animal can go on the ship.
However, there are a few cruise operators that cater to pets. Cunard Line, for example, has onboard kennels on its Queen Mary 2 ship, where dogs and cats are welcome during transatlantic crossings. Cunard even provides familiar sights for pets, such as a lamppost from Liverpool for British dogs and a New York City fire hydrant for U.S. dogs.
A truly pet-friendly option will emerge next year with the Margaritaville at Sea Islander ship, which will host a cruise dedicated to dogs. Unlike traditional cruises, this trip promises a fun and interactive experience for pets, with activities like costume contests and parades. According to French, this cruise takes a more “celebratory” approach to traveling with pets, capitalizing on the growing demand for pet-inclusive vacations.
In short, while it’s possible to take your pet on a cruise, passengers should be aware that policies vary significantly by cruise line, and options for traveling with pets remain limited. Always check the specific requirements and restrictions of the cruise line before making a reservation.
Related topics:
Essential Supplements for Gun Dogs: What to Look For
Golden Retriever’s Hilarious Reaction to Holiday Decor Goes Viral
10 Dangerous Dog Diseases Pet Owners Must Not Ignore
