Cruising With a Service Animal

Cruising with a service animal is possible with careful attention given to cruise line policies and international laws. For cruises departing from the United States, service animals are allowed but are limited to dogs that are trained to aid someone with a disability. For example, a trained service dog might guide a person who is blind, alert a person who is deaf or help protect someone who is having a seizure.

Service Dog Approval
To be approved to bring a service dog, passengers must meet several requirements:

• Most cruise lines require at least 60 days’ notice to arrange for service dog accommodations.
• Passengers are responsible for obtaining up-to-date vaccination records, a USDA Health Certificate and any permits required by individual ports of call.
• Passengers must provide a copy of these documents to the Guest Relations desk on the ship.

Onboard Guidelines
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to take your service dog on a cruise:

• The dog must remain on a leash or harness in all public areas and may not be left unattended in a stateroom.
• Ships typically set up a 4' x 4' relief station using materials like cypress mulch, wood pellets or sod.
• Service dogs are allowed in almost all public spaces, including dining rooms and theaters, but are prohibited from food preparation areas and pools and spas due to health regulations.
• Most lines do not provide dog food, so passengers must pack enough for the entire trip.