Another newbie with a question

[AnnaB]

Hello everyone. I have been surfling this web site for about a month so it is time I introduced myself. Our family will be on the 6-29 sailing of the Magic. My kids ( DS-8 DD-6) think we are going to WDW for a few days but they have no idea we are actually going on the cruise as well. I figured the day we leave we can just let them think we are driving back to NJ and then surprise them when we pull into the port. I know I will have alot of questions ( and I want to say thanks in advance....I have already begun keeping a note book full of tips I have learned on this forum. ) One of my first questions is do I need a passport. Does having one instead of Birth Certificates make the process go more smoothly. Also if anyone might have an idea of how long it takes to
1. renew a passport
2. get new ones for my kids.
And lastly has anyone ever had to renew a UK passport and does anyone have a time frame for this. My DH has his permanant green card but I would feel much better if he had a valid passport. Thanks Again AnnaB

 

[Señor Ferrari]

Hi AnnaB! For US citizens, you need only proof of citizenship, which is either a passport, or a birth certificate (original, or certified copy with raised seal) w/ photo ID. For kids, you just need their birth certificates. Since your husband is from the UK, he'll need his green card and a valid passport. Here's a Link to the Disney Cruise Line web page which lists what they actually require.

I think that a passport is much easier for travelling, since it is photo ID and proof of citizenship all in one, but plenty of people on this board cruise with birth certificate and ID without apparent problems.

As to renewing a US passport, the procedure is pretty easy, you can fill out the application at most post offices, and it usually takes about 2-3 weeks, although they tell you it could take up to 6. You can pay an extra $35 or so for "expedited processing", but I'm not sure exactly what that buys you. If you're going at the end of June, you should be fine if you get the passport applications in within the next week or two. Here's a link to the State department's passport services page.

Can't help with questions on a UK passport...Sorry!

 

[KeenHo]

Great question. Try this link, I have found it to be informative, comprehensive and fun to read. It will give you a complete reference for being prepared for and enjoying the Disney Cruise experience to the max! I printed it out (word document) and will carry it with me on the plane for last minute tips. Enjoy your cruise!

http://members.aol.com/entropym/pages/index.htm

Howard

 

[AnnaB]

Thank you both. The word document is a fountain of information and the link to the state dept will speed things up considerably. Before the kids came I used to travel the world on business...now my biggest trip is usually to the food store (lol).