Bermuda...Passport needed for kids?

[Chelley00]

4. Even though they say they want a letter from the other parent, 90 percent of the time they don't ask for it. You'll see this issue come up alot on cruise critic.

RCL ourt of Port Liberty asked if I had permission to take DS out of the country from his father. Thankfully I had a letter with me because I'm way to OCD to not have every possible circumstance planned out. There were people behind us who heard the agent ask for it and were scrambling to get ahold of an ex. We saw them later in the cruise and she mentioned she was lucky she had such an understanding exhusband who wrote a letter and had it notarized and faxed from his office to RCL. She said it was there 8th cruise and they had never been asked before.

 

[mdsoccermom]

1 It's expensive -- I have lots of FLa. friends who have cruised for 30 years on a BC....their cruises are only $300, so adding another 100 for a cruise is a huge upcharge.
2. Children's passports are only good for 5 years, so many people only use them once.
3. The whole family has to travel to the passport office or Post Office during hours they are open to apply for a child's passport. This can mean taking a day off of work or school, depending on the area you are in.
4. People who have joint custody of their kids run into the issue that the other parent refuses to allow for a passport, leaving the birth certificate the only way to go.

That's just a few reasons off the top of my head.

If they cruise as much as you imply, then a $100 is not a huge charge.

 

[bimshire]

1 It's expensive -- I have lots of FLa. friends who have cruised for 30 years on a BC....their cruises are only $300, so adding another 100 for a cruise is a huge upcharge.
2. Children's passports are only good for 5 years, so many people only use them once.
3. The whole family has to travel to the passport office or Post Office during hours they are open to apply for a child's passport. This can mean taking a day off of work or school, depending on the area you are in.
4. People who have joint custody of their kids run into the issue that the other parent refuses to allow for a passport, leaving the birth certificate the only way to go.

That's just a few reasons off the top of my head.

I always wonder about cruise travelers who have an excuse that a passport is expensive, yet claim they have been able to go on several cruises using a BC. If there was money to do all those cruises, there certainly was $100 for a 10 year passport.

Based on information, the Carnival Triumph was closer to Cozumel than Alabama and it would have been simpler to end a powerless cruise in Mexico. But due to 900 plus passengers travelling with a State Department authorized BC and gov't ID for closed looped cruises, the ship then had to be towed to the USA which was farther away.

Finally, at anytime a passenger with a BC can trip on the stairway on a ship, have a gallbladder emergency and end up being taken off the ship and left in a hospital in a foreign port, or whatever other emergency can come up. That BC will not get you on a plane.

So when travelling without a passport, if any emergencies come up and a passport is needed don't blame the cruise line. Just deal with it.

 

[jodifla]

I always wonder about cruise travelers who have an excuse that a passport is expensive, yet claim they have been able to go on several cruises using a BC. If there was money to do all those cruises, there certainly was $100 for a 10 year passport.

Based on information, the Carnival Triumph was closer to Cozumel than Alabama and it would have been simpler to end a powerless cruise in Mexico. But due to 900 plus passengers travelling with a State Department authorized BC and gov't ID for closed looped cruises, the ship then had to be towed to the USA which was farther away.

Finally, at anytime a passenger with a BC can trip on the stairway on a ship, have a gallbladder emergency and end up being taken off the ship and left in a hospital in a foreign port, or whatever other emergency can come up. That BC will not get you on a plane.

So when travelling without a passport, if any emergencies come up and a passport is needed don't blame the cruise line. Just deal with it.

Traveling on BCs was standard when I started cruising from Florida in the 80s. I think people who have gotten into the habit just don't see a need, because they've done it so many times.

I just renewed my passport, but DH let his lapse and my son's has lapsed as well. We've talked about going on a cruise in April. If we do, we won't scramble a round to get passports at this point.

 

[sam_gordon]

Based on information, the Carnival Triumph was closer to Cozumel than Alabama and it would have been simpler to end a powerless cruise in Mexico. But due to 900 plus passengers travelling with a State Department authorized BC and gov't ID for closed looped cruises, the ship then had to be towed to the USA which was farther away.

Are we going to start this again? By the time the tugs got to the Triumph, it had drifted closer to the US and the tides were pushing the ship to the north. Why not tow with the tides instead of against?

So when travelling without a passport, if any emergencies come up and a passport is needed don't blame the cruise line. Just deal with it.

This is true.

Despite what anyone says, a passport is nothing more than insurance on a closed loop cruise. I assume everyone who thinks those without passports are "stupid" also get trip insurance. After all, anything might happen.

 

[NHdisneylover]

Are we going to start this again? By the time the tugs got to the Triumph, it had drifted closer to the US and the tides were pushing the ship to the north. Why not tow with the tides instead of against?


This is true.

Despite what anyone says, a passport is nothing more than insurance on a closed loop cruise. I assume everyone who thinks those without passports are "stupid" also get trip insurance. After all, anything might happen.

Nope. I have plenty of money available in the bank and on credit cards to handle any cost associated with an emergency (my medical insurance DOES cover overseas and medical evacuation via helicopter from anywhere--including a ship)--so if we had a need to move quickly back home (someone was gravely ill at home, one of us was ill and the suggestion was to return to the states or Europe for medical care, the ship broke down and put everyone off in an area we do not feel safe staying in long and/or we need to get back to school and work ASAP by the time it gets us there, etc.) we COULD pay for it ASAP with no delays and do so (even if you have insurances you would have to be able to pay and then get reimbursed later). All trip insurance would do is make sure I am not out $$$ from unforeseen events occurring on the trip.

However, without a passport we would be delayed hours (at a lucky minimum), and very possibly days, returning home. If I am racing back to see my mother in the hospital after a heart attack, while I still CAN see her, or any other horrific scenario like that, I do not want ANY delays that I could have easily avoided with some advance planning (and, the cost means planning for it in advance).

A passport insures that I am able to move about as freely as possible as an American citizen without undue delays. To me, that is VERY VERY different than merely insuring I am not out extra money.

 

[Janepod]

I assume everyone who thinks those without passports are "stupid" also get trip insurance. After all, anything might happen.

You are the only one who has used the word "stupid."

I always decline trip insurance. Like Hadley above, I have the resources to deal with whatever might come my way. We have excellent insurance and our credit cards extend other good benefits.

I never travel without my passport and I always look forward to adding new chops to it. I'm a little mystified when people out and out refuse to get one, or make excuses (passport office is closed, really? Come on - if they were handing out APs you'd find a way to get there.) If the attitude was, "the United States has so much to see that I haven't explored yet," I would understand that, but to put it down to the hassle of taking a day off work once in 10 years, or spending $100 (again, over 10 years) baffles me -- especially on a board and forum that is dedicated to travel.

 

[sam_gordon]

You are the only one who has used the word "stupid."

You might want to read the entire thread before you comment...

I think it's absolutely stupid and irresponsible to leave the United States without a passport. I don't care if the State Dept. says it's ok for cruise. Yes, it's costly, but you should build it into your budget. If you can't, then don't leave the country.

I always decline trip insurance. Like Hadley above, I have the resources to deal with whatever might come my way. We have excellent insurance and our credit cards extend other good benefits.

I never travel without my passport and I always look forward to adding new chops to it. I'm a little mystified when people out and out refuse to get one, or make excuses (passport office is closed, really? Come on - if they were handing out APs you'd find a way to get there.) If the attitude was, "the United States has so much to see that I haven't explored yet," I would understand that, but to put it down to the hassle of taking a day off work once in 10 years, or spending $100 (again, over 10 years) baffles me -- especially on a board and forum that is dedicated to travel.

I've needed a passport twice in my life. Once for a trip in HS (25+ years ago) and once last year b/c my parents took the family on a trip to Mexico. I'm not going to fault anyone for getting a passport and I agree it is a good thing to have. However, it is by no means a NECESSITY. It's an individual's decision. I'm glad you and Hadley have the disposable income to do what you want and when you want it. Unfortunately that's not the case for many of us. And many times, it's not just $100... it's 4, 5, or $600 depending on how many family members are taking a trip.

I understand the benefits of having a passport. It could make a big difference during a trip. If someone asks "SHOULD I get a passport?" I would answer "Yes." But if someone says "Do I NEED a passport for a closed loop cruise?", the only factual answer is "No."

 

[TheSchragFamily]

It's a much easier decision for families that travel outside the country on a regular basis. I already have a passport application for our baby (due in June!), because she will need it by the time she is a few months old. If a closed-loop cruise is the ONLY travel outside the U.S. a family will be doing, it makes less sense financially to get one, especially for children. However, I would never risk not having one! I'd consider it part of the cost of the trip. Like I said, though...our kids will be using theirs multiple times before they expire.

 

[mdsoccermom]

Are we going to start this again? By the time the tugs got to the Triumph, it had drifted closer to the US and the tides were pushing the ship to the north. Why not tow with the tides instead of against?


This is true.

Despite what anyone says, a passport is nothing more than insurance on a closed loop cruise. I assume everyone who thinks those without passports are "stupid" also get trip insurance. After all, anything might happen.

Yes, I do get trip insurance.

 

[StitchesGr8Fan]

I think a PP summed it up pretty well. Do you NEED a passport? No.

SHOULD you have a passport? Yes, especially if anyone in your traveling party has health problems, there is anyone at home with greatly problems that you may need to get to quickly, or if you have a tendency to lose track of time and could potentially miss getting back on the ship in time at a port.

 

[sam_gordon]

Another follow up thought (targeted to Janepod & NH)...

You both elect not to get trip insurance. By doing so, you accept whatever responsibility (financial) comes with declining the coverage. Why is it ok for YOU to accept that responsibility, but it's not ok for someone else to accept responsibility for not having a passport?

If someone elects not to have a passport, goes on a closed loop cruise, and then NEEDS a passport (for whatever reason), that's on them. If they complain the cruise line should do something for them, nope, sorry. You made your choice.

I do wonder statistically, how many people NEED a passport on a closed loop cruise. The Allure of the Seas and the Oasis of the Seas (both Royal Caribbean) generally sail with upwards of 6000 people (or better). How many of those need a passport at some point during the cruise (because they get left or have to fly home or injury or whatever)? 10 at most? That's <0.2%. Statistically the odds are you don't need a passport.

 

[NHdisneylover]

Another follow up thought (targeted to Janepod & NH)...

You both elect not to get trip insurance. By doing so, you accept whatever responsibility (financial) comes with declining the coverage. Why is it ok for YOU to accept that responsibility, but it's not ok for someone else to accept responsibility for not having a passport?

If someone elects not to have a passport, goes on a closed loop cruise, and then NEEDS a passport (for whatever reason), that's on them. If they complain the cruise line should do something for them, nope, sorry. You made your choice.

I do wonder statistically, how many people NEED a passport on a closed loop cruise. The Allure of the Seas and the Oasis of the Seas (both Royal Caribbean) generally sail with upwards of 6000 people (or better). How many of those need a passport at some point during the cruise (because they get left or have to fly home or injury or whatever)? 10 at most? That's <0.2%. Statistically the odds are you don't need a passport.

I did not say people NEED to have a passport. I simply responded to your post in which you said it was the same thing as having trip insurance. It is not.

Personally, I think it is not wise to travel abroad without a passport. Personally, I recommend that everyone get one and include the price of doing so in their budgeting when travelling. If they want to take a risk, that is up to them, obviously. I do think it is okay to tell them my opinion though, and to tell them what type of risk they are taking. Many people who do not travel often (which, not having a passport indicates) would truly NOT understand what the risks of not having a passport are.

If, with all that info, if someone still chooses not to obtain passports before travelling abroad, fine, they have every right to make that decision. And I have every right to think it is the wrong one to make

 

[sam_gordon]

I did not say people NEED to have a passport. I simply responded to your post in which you said it was the same thing as having trip insurance. It is not.

Personally, I think it is not wise to travel abroad without a passport. Personally, I recommend that everyone get one and include the price of doing so in their budgeting when travelling. If they want to take a risk, that is up to them, obviously. I do think it is okay to tell them my opinion though, and to tell them what type of risk they are taking. Many people who do not travel often (which, not having a passport indicates) would truly NOT understand what the risks of not having a passport are.

If, with all that info, if someone still chooses not to obtain passports before travelling abroad, fine, they have every right to make that decision. And I have every right to think it is the wrong one to make

You are correct on all.

 

[Ciao Mickey]

1. Never heard of a $300 cruise but I'll take your word for it. Still, in the grand scheme of things, $100 is not a huge upcharge. Relative to $300, yes, but not in and of itself (esp not on a Disney board!)
2. So use them more - make it worthwhile.
3. No; only one parent - other can be notarized. Our Post Office has passport hours on Saturdays, as does the next-closest one. Not a hassle.
4. Not my area of expertise but presumably a parent who would not allow a passport would also not allow the kid to leave the country for a cruise, right?

Have a condo and family in Boca, so I can attest to the $300 weekend cruises from South Florida. Everyone does it on school breaks.

In fact, years ago, we went on one to the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale for $99.

 

[NHdisneylover]

Have a condo and family in Boca, so I can attest to the $300 weekend cruises from South Florida. Everyone does it on school breaks.

In fact, years ago, we went on one to the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale for $99.

We have paid as little as 329 Euro, when the exchange rate made that abut $400 for a 7 night in the Med on Royal Caribbean. That included all the taxes and fees (except tips, of course).

Last minute deals in off season can be amazing

 

[Chelley00]

Everyone here has a passport (except oldest DS, but he doesn't cruise with us anymore) and we always get trip insurance.

I must be really smart and responsible

 

[karensi]

Hi, OP here ,

I just want to thank all who responded.
I get it, a passport is the best way to go but not required.
I have forwarded this thread to DD and she and her DH can decide what they want to do for their family. I have a passport so no decision for me to make.

Thanks once again,

Karen

 

[wdwmom2]

OP, no you don't need a passport.

BUT, if you take your birth certificate and gov't issued photo ID, please know that the names on both must match. If someone is married and has taken their husband's last name, you must take your marriage license. You must have a paperwork trail.

Our friend's cruised with us in April 2007. She didn't bring her marriage license. Believe me, it was MANY anxious minutes in the terminal while they investigated the situation. Yes, they finally allowed them to board.

We also purchase travel insurance. Just purchased it today for our upcoming cruise. It's money spent that I hope I will never need to use. But I have used it in the past. Lost luggage I don't have money sitting around to pay for large medical bills or a fancy helicopter flight if I need to go somewhere for medical treatment.

But, I would rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it

 

[Handbag Lady]

Despite what anyone says, a passport is nothing more than insurance on a closed loop cruise. I assume everyone who thinks those without passports are "stupid" also get trip insurance. After all, anything might happen.

I don't think people without passports are stupid. I have a passport and I get trip insurance. So there.