Planning a vacation is thrilling but the thought of leaving your beloved pet behind makes it a bittersweet experience. Sadly, most vacation accommodations in other countries don’t allow pets, limiting your itinerary options. So, your choices are either modifying your travel plans to include pet-friendly destinations or leaving your pet behind. But, there is a third option as well. Book a pet-friendly cruise. You can travel with your family, including your furry friend, and won’t have to worry about finding pet care. It is a common cruising myth that leisure cruise holidays do not allow pets onboard. But times have changed. Today, some cruise operators ensure that you get to travel with your pets letting you explore dream destinations together. Here are our top pet-friendly cruises across the world to check out for a memorable vacation with your furry friends.
Why choose cruise vacations for a pet-friendly vacation?
Most tourists hesitate to take a pet along with them for a leisure vacation due to many limitations. They even wonder, ‘Are pets allowed on cruise ships?’ Yes, some cruise ships do. But why is a cruise ship better than conventional land expeditions?
With a cruise vacation, you don’t have to leave your pet behind. Let your four-legged friend join in your adventures and exploration around breathtaking destinations. It is also a great way to capture Instagram-worthy pictures with your pet at exotic places like the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, pristine stretches of Caribbean beaches and the majestic fjords of Norway.
With a cruise vacation, your pet travels along with you. They get to enjoy dedicated spaces and stay in well-appointed kennels within the comfort of a mega-ship. In the case of other modes of transportation to reach different destinations, chances are that your pet would be kept far away in a congested space. On board a ship, your pet can enjoy quality time with you. This eliminates the separation anxiety you and your pet might feel while travelling to new places.
You don’t have to worry about your pet’s well-being when you are away on vacation. Your pet can gleefully tag along on the giant ship, becoming your travel companion and enjoying the vacation right alongside you in a safe haven.
With the increasing number of pet parents wanting to travel more easily with their pets, tour operators are offering more pet-inclusive experiences. Cruise vacations are on the frontline with ships accommodating pets sailing to magnificent destinations. These cruise ships have incorporated several facilities and conveniences that make the journey with pets incredibly stress-free. The services range from kennel boarding areas, pet-friendly cabins, pet-sitting and grooming services to specialized pet menus with tasty treats and more.
So, don’t let the excitement of a holiday turn into a disappointment just because you cannot take your beloved pet along with you. A cruise holiday is the solution to this problem
Which cruises allow pets onboard?
How great would it be if you were searching for cruises from Athens to beautiful Mediterranean destinations and wish your pet would come along with you to enjoy these memorable moments? Well, now you can! Currently, there are only a handful of cruise operators providing cruise holidays that allow pets onboard. But it’s a start, and it’s anticipated that more cruises will soon welcome pets and their owners. Here are our picks for a pet friendly cruise holiday.
Cunard Cruise- Queen Mary 2
Image Credit : cunard.com
Among the finest leisure cruises, Cunard Cruise Queen Mary 2 has extended its welcome to furry pets onboard for a fantastic vacation at sea. Though predominantly catering to over 1000 passengers, the cruise has a kennel program allowing 24 dogs and cats to join the owners on a sea voyage. Onboard, pets can enjoy a private sundeck, air-conditioned kennels, and a selection of complimentary services, including a portrait session with the ship’s photographer.
Cruise Tails
Image Credit : cruisetails.com
A pet-friendly cruise experience based in Tampa, Florida – Cruise Tails is all about offering the ultimate exclusive vacations for dogs. It boasts a dog-friendly cruise where humans are simply along for the ride. The Tail of the Sea cruise invites over 250 dogs and their owners to sail, offering delightful entertainment and treats for pets among its many inclusions. Amenities are plentiful, including dog-walking adventures, pet sitting, a private relief station, and even a dedicated pet butler for your furry friend.
Royal Caribbean Cruise
One of the most popular names in the leisure and luxury cruise industry, Royal Caribbean offers amazing cruises all over the world. For pet lovers, however, the cruise operator is still to provide cruise packages with dedicated amenities for pets to enjoy a cruise vacation with their owners. In the meantime, service dogs are welcome to board with their owners on cruise vacations anywhere in the world.
Norwegian Cruise
Norwegian Cruise Line, like Royal Caribbean Cruise, allows service animals onboard with their designated handler. It currently has a ‘no pets onboard’ policy but here’s wishing they will soon adopt pet-friendly cruises for pet owners eager to travel.
DFDS Cruises
This cruise holiday operator offers dog friendly cruises on exclusive routes from Newcastle to Amsterdam, Newhaven to Dieppe, & Baltic where you can travel with your pet dog over the age of 16 weeks.
Mercury Cruise Chicago
Image Credit: mercurycruises.com
Besides these cruises, Mercury Cruises in Chicago operates Canine Cruises – an exclusive cruise for dogs and their owners. It’s essentially a small cruise trip that often lasts a few hours providing a pleasant way to enjoy the Chicago skyline with your furry friend. It is in fact a better way to enjoy a guided city tour from onboard a small cruise on the Chicago River and Lakefront.
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Key things to consider while choosing a cruise vacation with your pet
- Â Remember to book in advance. Pet-friendly cabins are limited and in high demand, so it’s essential to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Always follow pet protocols while onboard the ship.
- Read the pet policy carefully to avoid any disappointments, as you are required to meet all regulations and eligibility requirements for pet travel on a cruise.
- Double-check and keep safe all essential and legal documents for a cruise vacation for verification onboard.
- Ensure your pet has received all required vaccinations and is up-to-date.
FAQs
1. Can dogs go on a cruise?
Yes. Most pet-friendly cruises are designed to entertain especially dogs, However, some cruises have restrictions. Check with the cruise provider about limitations. Certain breeds, particularly those considered aggressive, are often not allowed.
2. Do cruises allow other animals apart from cats and dogs?
Most cruises have opened their doors to accommodate only dogs and cats.
3. Are there age restrictions for pets?
Yes, cruise lines have age restrictions for pets, typically requiring them to be at least a certain age before boarding.
4. Do pets require passports to travel?
Yes, a pet passport is a mandatory requirement for international travel.
5. What do I need to bring for my pet?
You can bring all your pet’s essentials for a smooth journey, including medications, toys, favourite treats, water bowls, leash, and carriers.
Conclusion
Leaving your beloved pet behind can dampen the joy of any getaway. Thankfully, the world of travel is evolving. Pet-friendly cruises are transforming vacations, allowing you to share the adventure with your four-legged companion. With these cruises, you can explore exotic destinations, enjoy luxurious amenities, and create unforgettable experiences alongside your pet. Do your research, and inquire about the best possible amenities for your pet care. With the right preparation and planning, you can easily bring your beloved pet along on your memorable journeys.
