If you DO NOT have a passport, are you able to cruise with Virgin Voyages?
The short answer is: Yes. You can sail Virgin Voyages WITHOUT a passport.
Read on for more helpful information!
What Documents are Required for Virgin Voyages?
When planning your cruise with Virgin Voyages, it’s essential to prepare the correct travel documents to ensure a smooth embarkation and journey.
While a passport is highly recommended (the ENTIRE WORLD is waiting for you to discover it!!!), Virgin Voyages allows some alternatives for U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that start and end at the same U.S. port).
Here are the documents you can use:
- State-Issued Birth Certificate and Government-Issued Photo ID:
- Ensure your birth certificate is an original or a copy issued by the state. Note that Puerto Rico birth certificates issued before July 1, 2010, are not accepted.
- Hospital-issued birth certificates are also not accepted.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad:
- If you were born outside the U.S. to American parents and have a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State, you can use this document along with a physical government-issued photo ID.
- If you were born outside the U.S. to American parents and have a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State, you can use this document along with a physical government-issued photo ID.
- Certificate of Naturalization:
- Those who have been naturalized as U.S. citizens can use their original Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, accompanied by a government-issued photo ID.
Important Reminder: In the event of a medical emergency or an unexpected need to leave the ship in a non-U.S. port, having a passport is necessary. While the alternative documents are sufficient for boarding and re-entering the U.S., a passport might be required under unforeseen circumstances.
Note: These guidelines are based on current government regulations and are subject to change. Always check the latest travel documentation requirements directly from Virgin Voyages or consult with a travel expert prior to your trip.
What it says in the Virgin Voyages app
See below for the app says once you upload your passport photo and info.
The key part: YOU STILL NEED TO BRING YOUR PASSPORT.
The important part in here? Bring your passport.
Below are things I’ve heard over 3 sailings that happened in a month’s timespan at the end of 2024:
- “Well I uploaded it to the app, but I didn’t bring it – is that a problem?” (Yes, this is a problem)
- A sailor will check their passport in the luggage they give to the porter… only to wait an additional 2-3 hours at the terminal for them to get it off the ship and give it to them for check in
- “I brought a photo copy of it, but not the ACTUAL thing, is that a problem?” (Yes, this is a problem)
Don’t let this be you!
Want Embarkation Tips?
Along with bringing your passport there are ADDITIONAL embarkation tips (like this one: DO NOT come early)! Learn more in these blogs post…
Want more? Check out the Virgin Voyages FAQs for more info by clicking here!
Get TOP TIPS in the Printable Virgin Voyages Pocket Guide
Want all the MUST-KNOW tips in in a PRINTABLE GUIDE to have with you while sailing?
Don’t miss out on the Virgin Voyages pocket guide which summarizes all the KEY things to know and serves as your go-to while you’re on the ship.