Passport for Cruise to Bahamas
by Cheryl
(Burlington, NC)
Question: We are planning on taking our teenage grandson on a cruise this summer, probably to the Bahamas. Does he need a passport? It could possibly go to Bermuda but would not go to Europe or such. We would need it by June or July.
Answer: U.S. citizens traveling to The Bahamas by sea on private watercraft or most commercial vessels must have a valid passport.
Those traveling by sea on an officially-designated “closed-loop cruise”, meaning that the port of entry is the same port as the port of re-entry upon return to the U.S., may enter using a passport, passport card, or other
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document. However, it is prudent to obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires a cruise passenger to disembark and return by air.
Please verify with your cruise line if your intended cruise is designated a
closed-loop cruise and whether or not you need a passport.
UPDATE:
High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.
- Standard service is currently taking between 7 and 10 weeks.
- Expedited service is currently taking between 3 to 5 weeks.
NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Need to get a passport faster?
Requesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens.
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you.
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly.
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation.
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.