Jayestravellingadventures

When leaving for a cruise, I always find saying goodbye to my dog (Ziva) one of the hardest things. I’m sure she gives me puppy eyes on purpose! When I am away, I always ask how she is before anything. I have created my own mini Ziva, so I can take her onboard any cruise ship wherever I go.

I have listed below when it is allowed to bring dogs and cats are allowed onboard cruises and what the policies behind it.

Cruise lines which allow dogs & cats:

Cunard is the only cruise line which allows dogs & cats onboard the Queen Mary 2. This is only on transatlantic cruises as it helps people to relocate or take trips abroad without the trouble of flying.

If it is a service dog this may be an exception on other cruise lines however, this has strict guidelines.

Cunard:

“On a Transatlantic Crossing on Queen Mary 2, dogs – and cats – are welcome. There are 24 kennels on board as well as a dedicated kennel manager, whose sole job is to take care of these special guests. Dogs and cats can enjoy lots of space to play, access to an owner’s lounge, and a few additions to remind them of home. British dogs will appreciate a familiar lamppost, brought on board from Liverpool, and American dogs will love the New York City fire hydrant.”

It is recommended to book 12 to 18 months in advance as spaces are limited and they are known to book up incredibly fast.

The price isn’t cheap with small dogs costing $800, larger dogs costing $1,000 and cats even more. Cats required two kennels as one is where they reside and the other is for their litter, so it will cost you $1600. Taking two cats means you can share kennels which will minimise the cost. Whilst onboard you can visit your pets and spend time with them at set visiting times.

The Queen Mary 2 is mainly a Ocean Liner rather than a cruise ship, providing one of the most formal/traditional experiences on the sea.

Service Dogs:

Before booking a cruise you must check their terms and conditions as every cruise line/ship is different. Bringing an emotional support dog onboard is not allowed but, service dogs which are trained and classed legally as service dogs are allowed. Specific documents such as, permits, pet passports, up-to-date treatments and records like vaccinations are required on some cruise lines.

Royal Caribbean:

It is recommended to notify the cruise line well in advance to ensure enough space is available. You might not be allowed to take your service dog to specific areas onboard or what your dog can do. So make sure you read and agree those Terms and Conditions of the cruise line.

Royal Caribbean issue a long list of terms and conditions which must be followed. Some are:

• Access Department must be notified at time of booking but no later than 30 days prior to sailing if you require a service dog relief area.
• Service dogs are allowed in dining areas and public areas onboard with their person on a leash or harness.
• Service dogs are not permitted in any spa, pools or whirlpool areas.
• When bringing a service dog onboard, they must be provided their own food, bedding etc for the duration of the cruise.
• Is disembarking at a port the dog is not permitted, you must take responsibility in ensuring your dog is cared for by another member of your party.
• A cleaning fee may be issued if the dog causes any mess.
• If any service dog creates a threat to safety for passengers, its self or crew with behaviour such as; biting, growling, sitting on furniture etc. The dog may be denied boarding or removed from the ship at the owners expense.
• It is essential when returning to the UK that the rules which are laid out by the Pet Travel Scheme are met.
• The service dog will need proof of either, a Pet Passport, Health Certificate, proof of vaccination of rabies, tapeworm etc as well as proof of a microchip.

Majority cruise lines don’t charge extra if you need to bring your service dog onboard with you.

Princess Cruises:

(Puppies In The Piazza)

The cruise line allows dogs onboard on their Alaska cruises although they aren’t pets. On this cruise they hold such an incredible event to incorporate the local communities. They do this by holding a “Puppies In The Plazza”, where sled dog puppies come onboard to meet passengers.

The handlers explain in depth about the training and all fascinating information whilst you get to cuddle and meet them. They also offer amazing excursions where you can experience first hand dog sledding.

Small River cruises / Ferries:

Small river cruises can sometimes offer dog friendly sailings, and ferries which sail over night allow dogs and have special dog friendly cabins. Always check before departure to avoid being denied boarding or being fined.

Alternatives:

Whether you are allowed to bring your dogs or cats onboard, I think it could result in a stressful time due to the animal not being in their normal surrounding, as well as confined space.

I make sure someone is able to pet sit for me whilst I am away, this is the most cost effective, I also have a camera in my kitchen so I can keep a close eye on my pets whilst no one is there. If you haven’t got anyone to animal sit, then researching kennel services would be another great option. Always check the availability before booking you cruise to ensure they are cared for well.

How can you not miss this face!