Ever wished you could take your furry best friend on a cruise vacation? Some cruise lines are now making it possible with pet-friendly sailings. From designated “poop decks” and pet-friendly cabins to splash zones and even puppy massages, your dog or cat can have a truly “paw-some” time onboard.
But what’s the deal with taking your four-legged travel buddy on regular cruises? After all, most major cruise lines only allow service animals on board, and not even emotional support animals get to step a paw on the gangway.
So, how can you set sail with your furry friend without breaking the rules—or the bank? This article dives deep into which ships roll out the red carpet for your pets. You’ll also find top tips on how to make Fido your best traveling companion.
Choose a Cruise Line That Welcomes Dogs
If you want to sail with your pet dog or cat, Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 is the only ship with dedicated facilities for pets. Deck 12 is a pet-friendly area that has 24 luxurious kennels suitable for small to mid-sized breeds. Imagine—your favorite pooch gets pampered on board as much as you!
What’s on offer on the ocean liner for the ultimate in pet pampering? Think air-conditioned kennels, daily walks, freshly cooked chicken, baked pet treats, and a personal cruise card. You even get a complimentary portrait as a cute memento.
The good news is you get to interact with your pet during the voyage on Deck 12. However, pets cannot be in staterooms or public areas.
It’s vital to know that certain breeds are not allowed onboard. These include Great Dane, St. Bernard, Mastiff, Afghan, and Greyhound breeds. Also, all animals must be vaccinated, microchipped, and have an official PET passport.
From what I read online, pet cruising on the Queen Mary 2 is a better alternative to flying transatlantic. One traveler said that it’s a fantastic option to cruise with a pet, but it’s pricey and not really a doggy vacation. Another shared that availability is limited, and there’s a ton of paperwork.
These restrictions don’t apply to service animals.
Margaritaville at Sea’s Exclusive Dog Cruise
Margaritaville at Sea is shaking things up with its first-ever dog-friendly cruise. This specialty pet-focused voyage promises a paradise for both pets and their human companions. Your furry friend will enjoy pet-friendly cabins, outdoor play areas, canine spa treatments, and splash zones.
Operated by Cruise Tails, the trip lets pet parents enjoy a cruise experience in style. To ensure pet comfort, there’s a “poop” area on the balcony and a pet-friendly cabin set up. Also, around the decks are areas for dogs to relieve themselves—even against a good old fire hydrant. So, a “home-from-home” cruise experience!
While pet parents are buzzing with excitement, reactions online are mixed. Even some dog lovers are skeptical about it. One shared how they loved their dog but couldn’t imagine the stink onboard. Others are worried about barking, cleanliness, fleas, feces, and general chaos.
Interestingly, some pet lovers also share concerns online about animal well-being at sea. Dogs get seasick just as much as humans. And the confined spaces onboard, lack of exercise areas, and close contact with unfamiliar dogs could be a recipe for disaster.
Let’s face it—although it sounds like an adventure, pets are probably not sulking in the house, wondering when the next cruise is happening. Even cruisers with trained service dogs say the cruise experience can stress their animals.
Register Your Dog as a Service Animal to Take It Cruising
Dreaming of taking your pooch on a regular cruise? One legitimate option is to register them as a service animal. However, it’s not as simple as it sounds. You’ll need to provide detailed documentation, including proof of training, updated vaccinations, and a clear explanation of the specific tasks your dog is trained to perform.
To get your pet registered as a service animal, you must prove you have a qualifying condition, train your dog to perform tasks you cannot perform yourself, and pass a public access test. Only then can you get the correct certification and service dog ID card.
Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian only allow legitimate service dogs trained to assist people with disabilities. Thinking of taking an emotional support pet on board? Unfortunately, they’re not invited.
Don’t forget to notify the cruise line early—spots for service animals are limited, and planning ahead is a must.
From reading various cruise forums, I discovered that it’s not always smooth sailing with a service pet onboard. One cruiser shared they got fed up with so many questions from strangers, and kids didn’t understand they shouldn’t pet them.
So yes, cruising with a service dog is possible, but it comes with extra rules, paperwork, and a lot of unwanted attention. If you’re ready for that, your furry co-captain can still join the adventure. Just don’t expect it to be stress-free.
Explore the Great Lakes with Your Dog
The easiest way to combine travel, cruising, and pet company is to incorporate a road trip with sailing experiences.
Many pet lovers head to the Michigan Great Lakes in an RV or car with their pooches. The area offers spectacular scenery and dog-friendly cruising options. On smaller cruise vessels, pets are often welcome to join in the adventure as you sail past breathtaking shorelines, charming coastal towns, and historic lighthouses.
Many travelers rave about Chicago’s Canine Cruise on Lake Michigan for 90 minutes. Other routes between Michigan, Wisconsin, and Canada provide open-air decks where dogs can stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh breeze.
For more extended stays, consider pairing a short cruise with pet-friendly accommodations on shore.
Island Hopping in Europe with Your Dog
Want to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime with your furry friend? Why not plan a trip to Europe and go island hopping on smaller ferries and regional boats? Plenty of options around the Mediterranean exist to travel from Greece, Italy, or Croatia to explore small islands and historic villages and enjoy breathtaking landscapes.
Here are a few ideas:
- Ferries in Italy allow dogs on deck during crossings to destinations like Sicily or Sardinia.
- Dogs are permitted on many ferries between Greece and the Cyclades or Ionian islands.
- Pet-friendly ferries like DFDS allow dogs onboard between destinations like the U.K., France, Scandinavia, Denmark, and the Baltic countries.
Pair the crossings with overnight stays in dog-friendly hotels, and you’ve got a European adventure both you and your pup will never forget.
Cruise the California Coast With Your Dog
The stunning California coast is a dream destination for dog lovers looking to cruise. While traditional cruise lines don’t allow pets, several dog-friendly boat tours and ferries offer perfect alternatives for you and your furry friend to find your sea legs.
Several small cruise operators in the San Francisco Bay or San Diego harbor area have one to two-hour pet-oriented cruises. These provide plenty of fun for dogs, including treats, buffets, trick contests, and music. One cruiser shared that their dog loved the San Diego harbor cruise with its calm waters, and together, they had so much fun.
For a more laid-back experience, hop on a pet-friendly ferry to Catalina Island. With hiking trails and dog-welcoming cafes, it’s a paradise for both humans and pets. Just note that dogs are not allowed on beaches.
California’s coast is a gorgeous getaway, perfect for travelers looking to bond with their dogs on the water.
Embark on an Alaskan Marine Adventure
Looking to take your furry friend on an Alaskan adventure? The Alaska Marine Highway is a pet-friendly ferry service that allows you and your dog to explore the wild beauty of Alaska’s coast. This ferry system connects major ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
A caveat of this cruising adventure is that dogs must stay in your vehicle for the entire sea crossing. There are scheduled “relief” breaks which last 15 minutes. It’s also vital to bring food, water, bedding, and toys.
One traveler shared that the views were incredible, and having their dog with them made it even more special. However, another said that the ferry trip wasn’t entirely pleasant because the boat lacked proper pet facilities. The good news is that dogs can disembark at every port of call.
With preparation, the Alaska Marine Highway lets you and your pooch enjoy the ultimate coastal road trip on the water.
Plan a River Cruise for a Relaxed Experience With Your Dog
Combine a scenic road trip with a peaceful river cruise for the ultimate adventure with your pet dog. River cruises are calmer, allowing dogs to enjoy sights like rolling hills, charming towns, and wildlife along the way. Perfect for travelers looking for a laid-back, dog-friendly journey.
Here are some dog-friendly river cruisers some of my pet-owning friends have recommended:
Potomac River Cruises: Enjoy stunning views of Washington D.C.’s landmarks while your pup relaxes alongside you. Canine cruises and pet-friendly cruises are available.
Hudson River Tours: Scenic fall foliage or summer breezes make this an unforgettable outing for you and your dog. One tour operator has a unique “Bark and Brew” cruise for dog lovers and their pets.
Mississippi River Day Trips: Short pet-friendly cruises on historic paddle steamers let you soak in the history and beauty of America’s heartland while enjoying time with your four-legged friend.
DIY Houseboat Adventures Your Dog Will Love
How about spending a relaxing vacation with family or friends and your lovable pooch? Renting a houseboat for a weekend or longer is the ideal way to “cruise with dogs.”
A houseboat vacation is the ultimate dog-friendly getaway, with endless opportunities for paddling, woodland walks, and exploring hidden shores. Dogs love splashing into the water, chasing sticks, and napping under the open sky.
Do a search online for “pet-friendly houseboat rentals,” and you will find many options for your next vacation.
Short Day Cruises for Dogs Who Love Quick Adventures
Short-day cruises are the perfect addition to an extended road trip with your dog. They offer a refreshing break from driving, allowing you and your pup to stretch your legs, enjoy the water, and soak up scenic views.
Whether you’re exploring coastal towns or riverside stops, these quick cruises add an extra layer of adventure to your journey.
Here are several dog-friendly day cruises I’ve discovered to give you some ideas:
River tours in St. Augustine, FL: Enjoy a peaceful journey through St. Augustine’s rivers and estuaries, spotting dolphins, manatees, and seabirds. Relaxing river tours are perfect for nature lovers and their pets. Dogs love lounging on the deck while you soak in the sights of America’s oldest city.
Sightseeing cruises in Chicago, IL: Cruise along the iconic Chicago River and take in the stunning skyline and historic bridges. This guided tour highlights famous landmarks, giving you and your pet dog a unique perspective of the Windy City. With open-air decks and gentle waters, it’s a relaxing outing for dogs and their humans.
Coastal boat trips in Boothbay Harbor, ME: Explore Maine’s rugged coastline, charming harbors, and abundant wildlife, including seals and seabirds. Scenic tours are perfect for adventure-loving dogs who enjoy the sea breeze and open space. The tranquil waters and coastal beauty make for a memorable experience.
Harbor cruises in Newport Beach, CA: Set sail through the beautiful Newport Harbor, passing luxury yachts, sea lions, and waterfront homes. This dog-friendly cruise is excellent for families, offering calm waters and scenic views. Sit back and relax with your pet dog at your side, enjoying the sunny California vibes.
Shrimping tours in Biloxi, MS: Cruise the Mississippi Sound on this unique shrimping experience that’s as educational as it is fun. Watch local shrimping techniques in action while your dog enjoys the fresh sea air and exciting new smells. It’s a laid-back adventure perfect for curious furry friends and their owners.
Essential Tips for Cruising With Your Dog
Enjoying the dream cruise with your pet dog requires meticulous planning. Here are some of the tips I’ve picked up from people I’ve met on board who travel with their dogs.
Preparation is key. Pack everything your pet needs—favorite food, toys, medications, and a cozy blanket or bed to make them feel at home. Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as a pet passport, vaccination records, and health certificates, to avoid disruptions to your cruise plans.
Comfort and safety are vital when onboard. Ships can be overwhelming with their movement, noise, and tight spaces, so help your service dog acclimate slowly. Be prepared with seasickness medication for pets. Also, try to keep to a routine to reduce stress.
Budget. Cruising on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 or Margaritaville at Sea isn’t cheap. It can add hundreds of dollars to your cruise bill. Therefore, plan for additional expenses. Alternatively, consider cheaper day cruises or houseboat rentals to have fun with your pets on vacation.
Overcoming the Challenges of Cruising With a Dog
The biggest challenge of taking a dog on a cruise is paperwork. Vaccination and health certificate regulations can throw a wrench in your plans. Without these, your dog may have to go into quarantine. The fix? Do your homework on destinations and triple-check your dog’s paperwork to keep things smooth.
For example, Cunard’s website says that “owners are responsible for researching each country’s regulations in order to go ashore with their assistance dog.”
Another significant issue is limited space onboard for pets. Ships like Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 have 24 kennel spots, but they sell out fast. Also, Margaritaville at Sea only has 250 spots for pets. The trick? Book early, be flexible with dates, and think outside the box.
Cruising With Your Dog Is an Unforgettable Experience
Cruising with your dog is more accessible—and exciting—than ever. With so many options to explore, it’s time to pack your bags, grab the leash, and create memories that’ll have tails wagging for years to come!
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