DO I NEED A PASSPORT TO GO ON A CRUISE?
While we STRONGLY recommend traveling with a passport, it is not always required for U.S. Citizens. As long as your cruise ship departs from a U.S. port and returns to the same port it departed from (this is called a “closed loop” cruise), you are not required to have a passport to return to the U.S. Keep in mind, that the U.S. State Department can change this in the future.
Also, keep in mind that if you have to leave the ship early in a foreign port, you are required to have a U.S. passport in order to fly back to the U.S. You will have to go through extra measures, possibly paying for an emergency passport at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, in order to return home.
For non-U.S. Citizens (traveling from another country, or legally residing in the U.S. in possession of a Green Card), you will need to confirm what form of ID you are required to travel with, whether that’s a passport from your country of citizenship and/or additional documentation (i.e. a U.S. Green Card).
Also, keep in mind that if you have to leave the ship early in a foreign port, you are required to have a U.S. passport in order to fly back to the U.S. You will have to go through extra measures, possibly paying for an emergency passport at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, in order to return home.
For non-U.S. Citizens (traveling from another country, or legally residing in the U.S. in possession of a Green Card), you will need to confirm what form of ID you are required to travel with, whether that’s a passport from your country of citizenship and/or additional documentation (i.e. a U.S. Green Card).
DOES THE NAME ON MY RESERVATION HAVE TO MATCH MY ID EXACTLY?
Yes. It is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other government issued picture identification. If your name has changed since your document was issued (e.g., marriage/divorce), it is required that you update the document with the new name or provide an official supporting document of the name change. Otherwise, it may result in delay or possible denial of boarding. Denied boarding will not be refunded, nor is it covered by travel insurance.
WHAT VACCINATIONS DO I NEED BEFORE I LEAVE THE UNITED STATES?
For many destinations, you do not need any special vaccinations. We recommend checking the Center for Disease Control's website for recommendations specific to the destinations you are visiting.
CAN SOMEONE'S CRIMINAL RECORD AFFECT THEIR TRAVEL PLANS?
The short answer is: maybe.
You will need to check with the countries you plan to travel to, and verify with their embassy or consulate if your criminal history (especially felony convictions) could affect your ability to enter their country. As an example, if you have a DUI conviction on your record (misdemeanor or felony), no matter how long ago, you could be prevented from entering Canada. Do not assume that something that took place 20 years or more in the past would not be an issue.
Here is a good resource for travel to Canada
You will need to check with the countries you plan to travel to, and verify with their embassy or consulate if your criminal history (especially felony convictions) could affect your ability to enter their country. As an example, if you have a DUI conviction on your record (misdemeanor or felony), no matter how long ago, you could be prevented from entering Canada. Do not assume that something that took place 20 years or more in the past would not be an issue.
Here is a good resource for travel to Canada
CAN I travel with MY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS?
It varies based on your destination, regardless of whether it is within the United States or an international destination.
If you live in a state that has legalized medical marijuana, you cannot travel with it outside of your state; no matter the circumstances. It is a federal offense to cross state lines with any amount of marijuana in your possession. It is also a crime to transport marijuana to international destinations.
As for other prescribed medicines, there may be travel restrictions on them as well, much like the restrictions on marijuana.
We recommend checking out the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) website or contact the embassy/consulate for the countires you want to visit to confirm any restrictions they may impose on visitors.
If you live in a state that has legalized medical marijuana, you cannot travel with it outside of your state; no matter the circumstances. It is a federal offense to cross state lines with any amount of marijuana in your possession. It is also a crime to transport marijuana to international destinations.
As for other prescribed medicines, there may be travel restrictions on them as well, much like the restrictions on marijuana.
We recommend checking out the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) website or contact the embassy/consulate for the countires you want to visit to confirm any restrictions they may impose on visitors.
WHAT NAME SHOULD I BOOK UNDER FOR OUR HONEYMOON?
Unless you have a couple of months or longer between the wedding and honeymoon, you will need to get your passport in and book your travel in your maiden name. You can change the name on your passport after returning home.
CAN I SET UP A PAYMENT PLAN?
It will depend on what we are booking for you. Many times airfare has to be paid in full at the time of booking. But many packages do have the option of paying a deposit with a final payment date 30-120 days before the start of your vacation. Between the deposit and final payment, we can set up a payment plan based on your needs.
what form of payments are accepted?
We would recommend that you pay by credit card whenever possible. Credit card companies offer the most protection compared to debit cards, cash, or check payments. If you prefer paying by check, money order, or cash, don't hesitate to contact us for details on how to do so.
Is Ships 'n' trips travel accredited and licensed?
Yes, Ships 'N' Trips Travel is an accredited travel agency with IATA (International Air Transport Association), as well as a member of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) and belongs to the Leisure Travel Alliance.
