Conflicting regulations from the US Department of Homeland Security and major cruise lines have left many travelers asking “Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?” and not getting a clear answer. According to the Palm Beach Daily News, as a result, passengers end up not only confused, but stranded as well.
Here’s the skinny: Under Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) regulations, people traveling by boat to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean need one of the following documents:
- A US passport book
- A US passport card
- An enhanced driver’s license (only available in certain states )
- A “trusted traveler” card, such as a NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI card
HOWEVER, the WHTI also contains an exception for passengers on closed-loop cruises, cruises that begin and end in the same US port.
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