Most cruise lines do not allow pets, but Cunard's Queen Mary 2 permits them on transatlantic voyages
The short answer is no for nearly all cruise lines—pets are not permitted on standard cruises. However, Cunard Line allows dogs and cats on transatlantic crossings aboard the Queen Mary 2, and all cruise lines must permit service animals trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. The rules for companion pets are strict: only certain ship routes may have access to, advance notice is required, and your pet stays in a cabin rather than roaming the ship. If you are planning a cruise and own a pet, you need to know which lines allow them and what paperwork and fees explore before you book.
The Queen Mary 2 is the only regularly scheduled cruise ship in North America that accepts companion pets. It operates transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton, England, typically taking six to seven days. The ship carries a veterinarian on board and has maintained this pet policy for over two decades, making it the standard option for pet owners who want to bring their animals on a cruise.
Key Takeaways
- Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is the only major cruise ship that regularly accepts pets on transatlantic voyages, with a limit of two pets per cabin.
- Pets travel in your cabin and do not have access to public areas like dining rooms, pools, or theaters.
- You must book a pet-friendly cabin type in advance, pay a nonrefundable pet fee (typically $500 to $800 per crossing), and provide health certificates and vaccination records.
- Service animals trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities are treated differently and have broader access than companion pets.
- If your cruise line does not permit pets, you will need to arrange land-based care or boarding before departure.
Cunard's Queen Mary 2 and transatlantic pet policy
Cunard Line permits dogs and cats on the Queen Mary 2 during transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton, England. This is the only regularly scheduled cruise route in North America where pets are allowed. You can bring up to two pets per cabin, and they must remain in your stateroom at all times. Cunard provides food and water bowls, a litter box (for cats), and waste bags.
Pets do not have access to dining rooms, theaters, pools, or any public deck areas. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet and managing any damage to the cabin. The nonrefundable pet fee is approximately $500 to $800 per crossing, depending on the cabin type and voyage length. You must book a pet-friendly cabin category when you reserve—these cabins are limited in number and fill quickly during peak seasons, so contact Cunard at least 60 days before your preferred sailing date.
Health certificates and vaccination requirements before boarding
Cunard requires a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure. The certificate must state that your pet is in good health and free from infectious disease. You will also need proof of current rabies vaccination and, for some destinations, proof of other vaccinations depending on UK entry rules. The UK has specific import rules for pets, and these requirements explore even though your pet remains on the ship.
Contact Cunard at least 60 days before your voyage to confirm current health documentation requirements, as rules can change based on port regulations. Keep copies of all documents in your cabin and bring originals to the boarding process. If your pet becomes ill during the voyage, the ship's veterinarian can provide care, though costs are your responsibility. There is no veterinary clinic on other cruise ships, so this is another reason the Queen Mary 2 stands out for pet owners.
Service animals versus companion pets on cruises
Service animals trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities (such as guide dogs for the blind or psychiatric service dogs) are treated as medical equipment, not pets. Nearly all cruise lines permit service animals in cabins and allow them in most public areas where the handler goes. Service animals do not require the same advance booking, pet fees, or health certificates as companion pets. If you travel with a service animal, notify the cruise line when you book so they can note it in your reservation.
Emotional support animals and therapy animals are not classified as service animals under U.S. law and are treated the same as companion pets by cruise lines. This means they are not permitted on most ships, even with documentation. The distinction matters: a service animal performs a trained task; an emotional support animal provides comfort through its presence alone. Bring documentation of the animal's training and your disability when you notify the cruise line, though they are not required to ask for proof.
Alternatives if your cruise line does not allow pets
If you are booked on a cruise line that does not permit pets, you have three main options: hire a pet sitter to stay in your home, board your pet at a facility, or arrange care with a trusted friend or family member. Pet sitters typically cost $25 to $75 per day depending on your location and the level of care needed. Boarding facilities range from $30 to $100 per day for standard care. Start arranging care at least four weeks before your departure.
Ask your veterinarian for referrals to local sitters or facilities with good records. If you use a sitter, leave detailed instructions about feeding, medication, exercise, and emergency contact information. If you use a facility, visit in person before booking and confirm they can handle your pet's specific needs—especially if your pet has medical conditions or behavioral concerns. Some pet owners also consider rescheduling their cruise to a Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossing if bringing their pet is important. Comparing the cost of boarding against the pet fee and cabin upgrade for a Cunard voyage can help you decide which option makes sense for your situation.
Other cruise lines and their pet policies
Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises do not permit pets in cabins on any voyage. A few lines have experimented with pet-friendly sailings in the past, but these programs have been discontinued or are not regularly scheduled. Some cruise lines permit pets in kennels on certain ships, but this is rare and typically only available on specific itineraries.
Contact your cruise line directly to ask about any exceptions or upcoming pet-friendly programs, as policies can change. If you are flexible about which cruise line you use, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is currently your only mainstream option for bringing a pet aboard a cruise ship in North America. Policies that did not exist five years ago might be introduced in the future, so it is worth checking with your preferred line if you plan to cruise regularly.
Preparing your pet for a transatlantic voyage
If you book a pet-friendly cabin on the Queen Mary 2, prepare your pet for six or seven days in a cabin. Most pets adjust well if they are already comfortable in enclosed spaces, but some animals experience stress from the ship's motion, engine noise, and unfamiliar surroundings. Before the voyage, take your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup and discuss any concerns about motion sickness or anxiety. Ask whether medication might help if your pet is prone to stress.
Bring your pet's regular food (the ship does not provide pet food), favorite toys, and any comfort items that help them relax. Pack more food than you think you will need in case of delays. Exercise your pet before boarding and establish a routine for the voyage—regular feeding times, bathroom breaks on deck (in designated areas only), and playtime in the cabin. The confined space and routine differ from home, so patience and consistency help your pet adjust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my cat or dog on a cruise other than the Queen Mary 2?
No. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is the only major cruise ship regularly accepting pets on scheduled voyages. All other major cruise lines prohibit companion pets in cabins. Service animals are permitted on all cruise lines but must be trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.
What happens if my pet gets sick during the voyage?
The Queen Mary 2 has a veterinarian on staff who can treat your pet. Costs are your responsibility and are not covered by travel insurance unless you have a specific pet medical rider. Other cruise ships do not have veterinary care on board, which is another reason to choose the Queen Mary 2 if your pet has health concerns.
Do I have to pay extra for a pet-friendly cabin?
Yes. Pet-friendly cabins on the Queen Mary 2 are a specific cabin category, and you pay the nonrefundable pet fee (around $500 to $800) on top of the cabin fare. The cabin itself may also cost more than standard cabins because they are limited in number.
Can my pet leave the cabin to explore the ship?
No. Pets must remain in your cabin at all times on the Queen Mary 2. They do not have access to dining areas, theaters, pools, or public decks. This is a firm rule and applies to all pets, including service animals when they are off-duty.
How far in advance do I need to book a pet-friendly cabin?
Book as soon as you know you want to travel with your pet. Pet-friendly cabins are limited and fill quickly, especially on popular transatlantic crossings during summer and holiday periods. Contact Cunard at least 60 days before your preferred sailing date to confirm availability and current requirements.