Most cruise lines do not allow dogs in passenger cabins, but a few lines offer pet-friendly voyages
The short answer is no for most cruise lines. Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line do not permit dogs or cats in passenger cabins under any circumstances. However, Cunard Line allows dogs and cats on certain transatlantic crossings aboard the Queen Mary 2, and some river cruise operators like American Cruise Lines permit small dogs on select itineraries. The rules vary significantly by cruise line and by specific ship, so you cannot assume your dog can travel just because one ship in a fleet allows pets.
If your dog must travel with you, you will need to book with a cruise line that explicitly permits pets on the specific sailing you want. This is not a negotiable policy—cruise lines enforce pet restrictions strictly, and showing up with a dog when it is not permitted will result in denial of boarding.
Key Takeaways
- Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is the most widely available option for dog owners, allowing pets on transatlantic crossings but not on Caribbean or other itineraries.
- River cruise lines like American Cruise Lines and some smaller operators permit dogs on select sailings, though availability is limited and advance notice is required.
- Pet-friendly cruises typically charge a fee (often $50 to $150 per sailing) and require proof of vaccinations and health certificates.
- If you cannot bring your dog, you will need to arrange boarding, a pet sitter, or a trusted friend to care for your dog while you travel.
Cunard Line and the Queen Mary 2
Cunard Line is the only major cruise operator that regularly permits dogs and cats on board. The Queen Mary 2, Cunard's flagship, allows pets on transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton (England) and between New York and Hamburg (Germany). These voyages typically last 6 to 7 days. Pets are not permitted on Caribbean, Mediterranean, or other itineraries operated by Cunard ships.
Your dog will stay in your cabin with you, but you are responsible for all care, exercise, and cleanup. Cunard does not provide pet-sitting services, feeding, or walks. You must take your dog outside the cabin multiple times daily, and there are designated relief areas on the ship. The pet fee is typically $50 to $150 per transatlantic crossing, depending on the cabin type and sailing date.
You will need to provide proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 10 days of departure. Some sailings may have restrictions on the number of pets allowed, so you should contact Cunard directly before booking to confirm your dog can be accommodated on your chosen date.
River Cruises and Smaller Operators
American Cruise Lines permits small dogs (typically under 15 pounds) on select river cruises in the United States, including sailings on the Mississippi River, Columbia River, and Snake River. The company requires advance notice when you book and charges a pet fee, usually $100 to $200 per cruise. Your dog stays in your cabin, and you are responsible for all care and cleanup.
Other smaller river cruise operators, including some European river cruise lines, may also permit dogs on specific sailings. However, availability is extremely limited, and policies change seasonally. You will need to contact the cruise line directly to ask whether your specific sailing allows pets, as this information is not always listed on their websites.
River cruises are typically shorter than ocean cruises (3 to 14 days) and dock in city centers rather than at sea, which can make it easier to exercise your dog during port stops. However, you should still plan to spend significant time in your cabin caring for your pet rather than exploring ports or attending ship activities.
What You Need to Bring and Prepare
If you are traveling with your dog on a pet-friendly cruise, you will need to bring all supplies yourself: food, water bowls, a bed or crate, toys, leashes, waste bags, and any medications. The cruise line will not provide these items, and you may not be able to purchase them on board. Pack as though you are traveling to a remote location with no pet stores nearby.
You must also obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of departure. This document confirms your dog is in good health and up to date on rabies vaccination. Some cruise lines also require proof of other vaccinations, such as DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza). Call the cruise line at least 30 days before your sailing to ask exactly which documents they need.
Consider your dog's temperament before booking. Cruise cabins are small, and your dog will spend most of the voyage indoors. Dogs that are anxious, prone to excessive barking, or require frequent outdoor access may struggle. If your dog has never traveled by ship or spent extended time in a confined space, take a shorter river cruise first to see how your dog handles it.
Alternatives if Your Cruise Line Does Not Allow Dogs
If you want to cruise with a major line that does not permit pets, you will need to arrange care for your dog before you leave. The most common options are boarding at a kennel or veterinary facility, hiring a pet sitter to stay in your home, or asking a trusted friend or family member to care for your dog.
Professional pet sitters typically cost $25 to $75 per day, depending on your location and the level of care required. Boarding facilities range from $30 to $100 per day. Both options require advance booking, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and holidays). Start researching and booking at least 6 to 8 weeks before your cruise.
If you have a friend or family member care for your dog, provide detailed written instructions about feeding, medications, exercise, and emergency veterinary contact information. Leave your cruise contact details and the phone number of your veterinarian in case something goes wrong while you are at sea.
Restrictions and Rules You Should Know
Even on pet-friendly cruises, your dog cannot leave your cabin during meals, entertainment, or when you are in port (unless you are taking your dog ashore). Your dog must remain in the cabin or in designated pet relief areas. You are financially responsible for any damage your dog causes to the cabin, and cleaning fees can be substantial.
Some cruise lines prohibit certain dog breeds, particularly those classified as dangerous or aggressive in their home port. Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other breeds may be banned even on pet-friendly sailings. If you have a breed that might be restricted, contact the cruise line before booking to confirm your dog will be permitted.
International sailings may have additional requirements. If your cruise crosses into Canadian waters or docks in Canada, your dog will need a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. Some countries have strict quarantine rules for dogs entering their ports, so research the requirements for any international ports on your itinerary.
Planning Your Pet-Friendly Cruise
Book your pet-friendly cruise as early as possible. Pet-friendly cabins and sailings fill quickly, and some ships have only a handful of cabins that allow dogs. Once you have booked, contact the cruise line when ready to confirm your dog's reservation and ask about any specific cabin locations that are best for pets (usually lower decks near relief areas).
Visit your veterinarian 4 to 6 weeks before your cruise to may support your dog is healthy and up to date on all vaccinations. Discuss any anxiety or motion sickness your dog might experience during travel. Some vets recommend calming supplements or medications for dogs that are nervous travelers.
Plan your port days carefully. If you are docking in a port, you will need to decide whether to leave your dog in the cabin while you explore or stay on board. Many dog owners find that staying on board is less stressful than leaving their dog alone in an unfamiliar cabin for hours. Research pet-friendly activities and parks in ports you plan to visit, in case you want to take your dog ashore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog on a Disney Cruise?
No. Disney Cruise Line does not permit dogs or cats in passenger cabins on any of its ships. The only exception is service dogs trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities, which are permitted under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Emotional support animals are not permitted.
What if my dog gets sick during the cruise?
Most cruise ships have a doctor on board, but they treat human passengers only. You will need to contact the ship's medical staff to ask for a referral to a veterinarian at the next port. In an emergency, the ship can divert to the nearest port with veterinary care. Veterinary treatment at sea or in foreign ports can be expensive, so consider pet travel insurance before you book.
Can service dogs travel on any cruise ship?
Yes. Service dogs trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities are permitted on all cruise lines, including those that do not allow pets. You will need to provide documentation of the dog's training and your disability. Emotional support animals and therapy dogs are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act and are subject to the same restrictions as regular pets.
How much does it cost to bring a dog on a Cunard cruise?
The pet fee for Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is typically $50 to $150 per transatlantic crossing, depending on your cabin type and the specific sailing. This fee is in addition to your cruise fare. You will also need to budget for pet supplies, a health certificate from your veterinarian, and any veterinary care your dog might need before or after the cruise.
Can I leave my dog in the cabin while I go to dinner?
Yes, but only for short periods. Your dog can stay in your cabin while you eat dinner or attend evening entertainment. However, you should not leave your dog alone for more than a few hours at a time. Make sure your dog has water, a comfortable place to rest, and access to a relief area before you leave the cabin.