Most cruise lines do not allow pets onboard, with one major exception
The short answer is no—most cruise lines will not let you bring your dog, cat, or other pet into your cabin or onto the ship. However, Cunard Line, which operates the Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria, does allow pets in certain cabins on transatlantic crossings. Even on Cunard, pets are not permitted on most other routes, and the rules are strict about which animals may have access to and how they must be transported.
If you are sailing with any other major cruise line—including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, or Princess—your pet cannot travel with you. Some lines offer pet-sitting services at ports or will direct you to kennels near the port, but your animal stays on land while you sail.
Key Takeaways
- Only Cunard Line permits pets in cabins, and only on Queen Mary 2 transatlantic voyages between New York and Southampton or Hamburg.
- Cunard allows only dogs and cats, requires a health certificate dated within 10 days of departure, and charges a pet fee per voyage.
- Pets must be exercised in a designated area on deck and cannot leave the cabin unattended during the voyage.
- All other major cruise lines prohibit pets in cabins entirely, though some offer information about pet-sitting services at home ports.
- Traveling with a pet on a cruise requires advance notice to Cunard and compliance with the health and documentation rules of both the departure and arrival countries.
Cunard's pet policy on transatlantic crossings
If you are booking a transatlantic voyage on the Queen Mary 2, you can request a pet-friendly cabin when you reserve. Cunard allows dogs and cats only—no birds, reptiles, rabbits, or other animals. You must notify Cunard at the time of booking that you are traveling with a pet, and you will need to pay a pet fee, which varies but is charged per voyage rather than per night.
The pet must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your departure date. The certificate must state that the animal is in good health and has current vaccinations. You will also need to comply with the import and export regulations of both the United States and the United Kingdom or Germany, depending on your destination. These rules can be complex—contact the relevant embassy or consulate at least six weeks before your voyage to confirm what documents your pet will need.
During the voyage, your pet cannot be left alone in the cabin. Cunard provides a designated exercise area on deck where you can take your dog or cat, but the animal must remain under your control at all times. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet and for any damage to the cabin.
What happens to your pet on other cruise lines
Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, and Princess Cruises all prohibit pets in cabins and do not offer onboard pet care. If you are sailing with one of these lines, your pet must stay behind. Some cruise lines provide information about pet-sitting services or kennels near the port of departure, but these are third-party services—the cruise line itself does not arrange or may provide them.
A few lines, including some Disney and Royal Caribbean itineraries, sail from ports where pet-friendly hotels are nearby, and you may be able to arrange boarding through a local facility. However, you will need to research and book this separately before your cruise. The cruise line will not hold your pet or coordinate its care.
Planning ahead if you have a pet at home
If you are not traveling on Cunard and you want to take a cruise, you will need to arrange care for your pet before you leave. Start planning at least four to six weeks before your departure date. Options include boarding your pet at a kennel, hiring a pet sitter to stay in your home, or asking a trusted friend or family member to care for your animal while you are away.
When choosing a boarding facility, ask about their experience with your type of pet, their daily routine, and what happens in case of illness or emergency. Visit the facility in person if possible. If you hire a pet sitter, make sure they have experience, check their references, and leave detailed instructions about feeding, medication, exercise, and your veterinarian's contact information.
Health certificates and international travel rules
Even on Cunard, where pets are allowed, the paperwork is substantial. A health certificate from your veterinarian is required, and it must be dated within 10 days of departure. The certificate should include your pet's name, breed, age, color, identifying marks, vaccination status, and the veterinarian's signature and license number.
If you are traveling internationally, you may also need an import permit from the destination country. The United Kingdom and Germany, for example, have specific rules about bringing pets into the country, and these rules can change. Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country at least six weeks before your voyage to find out what documents you will need. Some countries require a rabies titer test, which takes several weeks to complete, so do not wait until the last minute.
Alternatives to bringing your pet on a cruise
If you want to travel with your pet but cruise lines do not allow it, consider a land-based vacation instead. Many hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts welcome pets, and you can explore destinations at your own pace without leaving your animal behind. Pet-friendly road trips are another option if you enjoy driving.
If you are set on taking a cruise, the only realistic option with a pet is Cunard's transatlantic crossings. These voyages are longer and more expensive than typical Caribbean or Alaska cruises, and they require significant advance planning. If that does not fit your budget or schedule, arrange reliable pet care at home and enjoy your cruise knowing your animal is safe and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my bird or rabbit on a Cunard cruise?
No. Cunard only allows dogs and cats. Birds, rabbits, reptiles, and other animals are not permitted in cabins on any Cunard voyage, including transatlantic crossings.
What is the pet fee on Cunard, and how much does it cost?
Cunard charges a pet fee per voyage, but the amount varies depending on the length of the crossing and current pricing. Contact Cunard directly or check their website for the current fee. The fee is separate from your cabin fare.
Do I need a passport for my pet to travel on a cruise?
No, but you do need a health certificate from your veterinarian. If you are traveling internationally, you may also need an import permit from the destination country. Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination at least six weeks before departure to find out what documents are required.
Can my pet stay in the cabin alone while I go to dinner or activities?
No. Cunard's policy requires that pets not be left unattended in the cabin during the voyage. You must arrange for your pet to be with you or make other arrangements if you want to leave your cabin.
What if my cruise departs from a port near my home—can I leave my pet at a kennel nearby?
Yes, you can arrange boarding at a kennel near your home port. However, the cruise line does not coordinate this for you. You will need to research local facilities, book in advance, and make sure the kennel can accommodate your pet for the duration of your voyage plus travel time.