As I’m sitting here thinking about my Carnival cruise on the Carnival Sensation that is coming up in January 2011, it occurs to me that some new cruisers may not be aware of documents are needed for travel.  Here is some great information that I have received from Carnival Cruise Lines and thought that I would pass along to you. 

For individuals cruising with Carnival Cruise Lines, please remember that U.S. citizens must bring one of the following WHTI (Western Hemispher Travel Initiative) compliant documents in order to sail on a Carnival cruise that departs and end from the same U.S. port:

 

 

 

Valid U.S. Passport

Passport Card

Originial or legible copy of a Birth Certificate (issued by the Department of Vital Statistics)

Certificate of Naturalization

Enhanced Driver’s License

Trusted Traveler Program Membership Card (i.e Nexus Card, Sentri Card or Fast Card)

A Consular Report of Birth Aboard

Copies of the following will NOT be allowed:

US Passports

Naturalization Papers

Originals or copies will NOT be allowed:

Baptismal Certificates

Hopstial issued “Certificate of Birth”

It is always recommended that all guests travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond completion of travel.  Although a passport is not required for U.S. citizens taking cruises (in the Western Hemisphere) that begin and end in the same U.S. port, having a passport does make it easier for you to fly from the U.S to a foreign port should you miss the scheduled embarkation or need to fly back to the U.S. for an emergency. Having all your travel documents NOW (don’t forget your boarding pass )creates less stress later.

For more information go to www.travel.state.gov

Happy Cruising!
Donna