Cruises are a great experience, especially for those suspicious of travel. The uninitiated in the travel world will find cruises very accommodating; think of them as a resort on wheels– or over water. Stocked chock full of activities and amenities that would make a country club resident jealous, cruises are fantastic for first-time travelers. Unless you get seasick, they are a great way to begin your travel journey.
However, for those who never have traveled, you’re probably wondering: won’t I need a passport to board a cruise? Considering how long it’s taking to get even an expedited passport, this is a very valid question. After all, there’s nothing worse than booking travel plans only to discover you won’t be able to make them. No one wants to cancel plans on themselves. Now that isn’t very pleasant. Well, in some cases, yes, but in others, nope! Today, we’ll be looking at some cruise destinations that don’t require a passport to board. That’s right. These beautiful destinations are easily accessible to US citizens with just their IDs (or, in some cases, birth certificates). Let’s get started!
Lindblad Expeditions, Alaska
Lindblad cruises are for those travelers that want a more refined, personal travel experience, with all the fun and expeditions provided by a more commercial cruise line. This Luxury-Adventure cruise is not one to miss!
Not only has Lindblad Expeditions been awarded the #1 small ship cruise line by the 2022 Conde Nast travelers reader’s choice award, but they have an alliance with National Geographic. Lindblad Expedition’s partnership with National Geographic sets their cruise line apart.
Their joint mission statement reads: “ Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic have joined forces to further inspire the world through expedition travel. Our collaboration in exploration, research, technology, and conservation provides extraordinary travel experiences and disseminates geographic knowledge around the globe.”
Simply, you can’t get a more sophisticated, smart, and luxurious cruise experience than with Lindblad Expeditions.
Why Alaska?
Lindblad Expeditions offers one of the most unique Alaskan experiences. They take pride in creating an experience that allows travelers to go beyond typical ports, locations, and expeditions. This is due to their Nimble ships that are small enough to travel where larger cruise ships can’t go.
The small size of their ships also allows for a more personal experience with a 1:10 employee-to-traveler ratio, allowing your options for exploration, wider.
They also has a relationship with the Alaska Whale Foundation, allowing for more rich viewing experience compared to other Alaskan Cruise lines. To top it off, they have permits with the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service that gains them access to the most pristine parks and Alaska’s insane wildlife!
Packages
Lindblad Expeditions offers packages from 8-day expeditions, all the way up to 15 days of Alaska exploration.
All of their cruises have amazing perks included in the total cost of the cruise. Some of them include all inclusive food and beverages, morning stretch classes with wellness specialists, all shore excursions and sightseeing, special permits, use of kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, and the expertise of their expedition team, with educational talks and presentations, and many many more amazing offerings.
Disney Cruise Line
It has pools and waterslides, live character performances, and fun! If youre looking for a family vacation or if you want to release your inner child, consider a action on Disney Cruise Line.
Their website summarizes the experience perfectly, “ A Disney Cruise brings families together to create long-lasting memories with original, musical live shows, spectacular fireworks at sea, incredible destinations like our private island, and so much more.”
They offer many destinations to choose from, including the Caribbean, Mexico, The Bahamas, Canada, Alaska, and more. The best part about these specific locations is that they do not require a passport to embark on an international journey!
What’s Included
Your trip on a Disney Cruise Line includes Broadway level musicals, live entertainment, spacious staterooms, Disney’s exclusive private island, a 24 hour dining service, Nightclubs, Lounges, and imaginative youth clubs!
Odyssey of the Seas, Royal Caribbean
Want to explore some of the best locations in the Caribbean? Odyssey of the Seas by Royal Caribbean sails the Western Caribbean, Southern Caribbean, Eastern Mediterranean, and Eastern Caribbean. In addition to taking sail to some of the most beautiful places in the world, Odyssey of the Seas offers thrilling activities and excursions perfect for the thrill seeker!
Are you more of a foodie? They offer over 15 dining options that are sure to satisfy all of your vacation cravings. This cruise offers theatrical performances, classes at the fitness center, outdoor movie nights, the spa, a casino, and more!
Whether you want to spend your vacation lounging on their island deck, riding bumper cars with your best friends, or enjoying your date in one of their many fine dining experiences, the Odyssey of the Sea is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Want to Expand Your Horizons?
The Caribbean and Alaska are gorgeous places, but what about those who want to explore beyond our small slice of the world? You’ll most likely need a passport for those who dare to venture out. Most cruises that see exotic locales will either not start in the USA or not end in the USA. Closed-loop cruises which start and stop in the USA can (for the most part) be embarked on without needing a passport. However, if the cruise ends elsewhere, well, you’d be expected to be able to present one at the time of docking. Not bringing a passport on one of these journeys could lead to an awkward run-in with foreign customs agents.
That said, current passport processing times are taking about 4-6 weeks at the fastest for those applying for expedited service at a post office or courthouse. Depending on when you’re traveling, this turnaround time might be excellent! But for those with more nearby travel plans, you’ll have to explore other options. The main channel of applying for a passport in a time crunch is via the U.S. Department of State, but they only accept appointments from travelers with proof of travel within 14 days. Not only that but getting an appointment is not guaranteed even if you have proof of travel!
What You Need To Travel
For those who don’t like to take risks with their pertinent travel documentation, there’s us, The Passport Office. We offer concierge passport expediting services near you, so no matter what your travel predicament is, we can help you out when you’re in a bind. With our fastest processing speed, we can guarantee the delivery of your passport within 3 business days! So what are you waiting for? Get started and apply for a passport near you and get your expedited passport renewal in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, or Hollywood.
