Are Marriages Aboard Princess Cruise Lines Legal in US Find Out Now

Yes, marriages aboard Princess Cruise Lines are legally recognized in the U.S.—if performed in international waters by an authorized ship officer and properly documented. The ceremony must comply with maritime laws and the couple must meet U.S. legal requirements, including valid identification and blood tests (if required by home state). Always verify with Princess Cruises and your local jurisdiction to ensure full compliance before booking your wedding at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Legal in international waters: Marriages on Princess Cruises are valid if officiated per maritime law.
• US recognizes valid ceremonies: Legally binding if compliant with cruise line and maritime regulations.
• Documentation is key: Ensure proper paperwork, including ship-issued marriage license and ceremony proof.
• Onboard requirements vary: Confirm Princess Cruises’ specific rules before booking your wedding.
• Port country laws matter: Ceremonies in territorial waters must follow local marriage laws.
• Plan ahead: Contact Princess Cruises 3+ months early to secure dates and approvals.

The Allure of a Cruise Wedding: Setting Sail for Love

Imagine exchanging vows with the ocean as your witness, the sun setting on the horizon, and the gentle sway of the ship beneath your feet. For many couples, a wedding aboard a Princess Cruise Line offers a romantic and unforgettable way to begin their journey together. The idea of a cruise wedding has grown increasingly popular, combining the excitement of a vacation with the joy of a wedding celebration. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a grand event with family and friends, the allure of a destination wedding at sea is undeniable. But amid the excitement, one critical question often arises: Are marriages aboard Princess Cruise Lines legal in the United States?

This question isn’t just about romance—it’s about legality, recognition, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your marriage is valid across borders. With Princess Cruises operating globally and offering wedding packages on select itineraries, understanding the legal framework is essential. The answer depends on several factors, including the ship’s registry, the location of the ceremony, and the laws of the country where the ship is registered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the legal intricacies of getting married on a Princess Cruise, clarify the requirements for a legally binding marriage, and provide practical advice for couples planning a nautical wedding. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical wedding in the Caribbean or a scenic ceremony in Alaska, this article will help you navigate the process with confidence.

Understanding Cruise Ship Registries and Legal Jurisdiction

What Is a Ship’s Flag State?

The legal status of a marriage performed aboard a cruise ship hinges on the concept of flag state—the country in which the vessel is registered. Princess Cruise Lines, like most major cruise operators, does not register its ships under the U.S. flag. Instead, the majority of Princess ships are registered in the United Kingdom (UK), specifically under the British flag in the port of Southampton. This means that the ship is subject to UK maritime law, not U.S. domestic law, even when sailing in international waters or U.S. territorial waters.

For example, ships such as the Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, and Regal Princess are all UK-flagged. The flag state determines the legal authority for conducting marriages, issuing licenses, and recognizing the validity of the ceremony. This is crucial because a wedding officiated under UK law may not automatically be recognized as legal in the United States unless specific conditions are met.

How Jurisdiction Affects Marriage Legality

When a marriage is performed on a UK-flagged ship, it is governed by the Marriage Act 1949 (UK) and associated maritime regulations. Under this law, marriages can only be legally solemnized if:

• The ceremony takes place while the ship is in international waters (at least 12 nautical miles from any coast).
• The captain or an authorized officer of the ship acts as the officiant.
• Both parties are legally eligible to marry under UK law (e.g., not currently married, above the age of 18, etc.).
• The proper documentation, including a Notice of Marriage and Marriage License issued by UK authorities, is filed in advance.

However, even if a marriage is legally performed under UK law, U.S. recognition depends on whether the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution applies. While the U.S. generally recognizes marriages validly performed in foreign jurisdictions, there are exceptions—especially when the ceremony does not meet U.S. legal standards (e.g., lack of a license, improper officiant). Therefore, couples must ensure their cruise wedding meets both UK requirements and U.S. recognition criteria.

Princess Cruises and Legal Compliance

Princess Cruise Lines works closely with UK maritime authorities to ensure that weddings conducted on board comply with all legal requirements. The company employs licensed wedding coordinators and authorized officers who are trained to perform legally binding ceremonies. However, it’s important to note that Princess Cruises does not automatically issue U.S.-recognized marriage licenses. Instead, they facilitate the process by coordinating with the UK’s General Register Office (GRO) to issue the necessary documentation.

For instance, couples planning a wedding on a Princess ship must typically:

• Submit a Notice of Marriage to the UK GRO at least 29 days before the ceremony.
• Provide proof of identity, residence, and marital status (e.g., passport, birth certificate, divorce decree).
• Pay applicable fees for the UK marriage license and registration.

This process ensures that the marriage is legally valid under UK law and increases the likelihood of U.S. recognition.

Legal Requirements for a Valid Marriage on a Princess Cruise

Pre-Ceremony Documentation and Eligibility

To ensure your marriage aboard a Princess Cruise is legally recognized in the U.S., you must meet both UK and U.S. legal requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:

1. UK Marriage License and Notice of Marriage:
Princess Cruises requires couples to file a Notice of Marriage with the UK General Register Office (GRO). This must be done at least 29 days before the wedding date. The notice includes personal details, proof of eligibility, and a declaration that both parties are free to marry. Once approved, the GRO issues a Marriage Schedule, which serves as the legal license for the ceremony.

2. Proof of Identity and Eligibility:
Both parties must provide valid passports, birth certificates, and proof of residence. If either party has been previously married, they must provide a divorce decree or death certificate. U.S. citizens must also ensure their marital status is accurately reflected in U.S. records (e.g., no active restraining orders or pending divorces).

3. Age and Consent Requirements:
Under UK law, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If one party is 16 or 17, parental consent is required, which may complicate U.S. recognition. Additionally, both parties must appear in person to file the Notice of Marriage—proxies or remote filings are not permitted.

Timing and Location of the Ceremony

The timing and location of the wedding are critical for legal validity. According to UK maritime law, the ceremony must take place while the ship is in international waters—at least 12 nautical miles from any coast. This means:

• The wedding cannot occur while the ship is docked in a U.S. port (e.g., Miami, Seattle).
• The ceremony must be scheduled during a sea day, not during port calls.
• Princess Cruises typically plans weddings on days when the ship is sailing between destinations (e.g., a Caribbean cruise with a sea day between St. Thomas and Nassau).

Example: A couple sailing on the Royal Princess from Fort Lauderdale to the Eastern Caribbean might schedule their wedding on Day 4, when the ship is at sea between Grand Turk and San Juan. This ensures the ceremony occurs in international waters and complies with UK law.

Post-Ceremony Registration and Documentation

After the wedding, the officiant (usually the ship’s captain or authorized officer) must register the marriage with the UK GRO. The couple receives a UK Marriage Certificate, which is the legal proof of marriage. However, this document may not be automatically accepted in the U.S. for legal purposes (e.g., changing names, applying for spousal visas).

To ensure U.S. recognition, couples should:

• Request an apostille (a form of authentication) from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for the UK marriage certificate.
• Register the marriage with their local U.S. county clerk’s office (optional but recommended).
• Use the apostilled certificate for name changes, tax filings, and other legal procedures in the U.S.

Princess Cruises provides guidance on obtaining apostilles and can recommend third-party services to assist with the process.

U.S. Recognition of Marriages Performed at Sea

Federal vs. State Recognition

The U.S. Constitution’s Full Faith and Credit Clause generally requires states to recognize marriages validly performed in other states or foreign countries. However, this recognition is not automatic—especially for marriages conducted on foreign-flagged ships. The key factors influencing U.S. recognition include:

• Compliance with U.S. Public Policy: The marriage must not violate U.S. laws (e.g., same-sex marriages are recognized nationwide, but underage or forced marriages are not).
• Proper Documentation: The marriage certificate must be authenticated (e.g., with an apostille) and translated if not in English.
• Jurisdictional Validity: The ceremony must have been legally valid under the laws of the country where it occurred (in this case, the UK).

Most U.S. states accept UK marriage certificates with an apostille for legal purposes. However, some states (e.g., California, New York) have additional requirements, such as registering the marriage with a local clerk. Couples should contact their state’s vital records office to confirm the process.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Despite the legal framework, couples may face challenges when seeking U.S. recognition. Common issues include:

• Name Changes: Some states require a court order to change a name on a driver’s license or passport if the marriage certificate is foreign. To avoid delays, use the apostilled certificate and request a certified copy from the UK GRO.
• Tax Filing: The IRS accepts foreign marriage certificates for joint tax filing, but you may need to provide a translated and apostilled copy.
• Immigration and Visas: If one spouse is a non-U.S. citizen, the marriage must be recognized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The apostilled certificate is usually sufficient, but additional documentation (e.g., proof of cohabitation) may be required.

Tip: To streamline the process, consider obtaining a dual-language marriage certificate (English and the local language of the UK) and have it notarized by a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Case Studies: Real-Life Examples

Case 1: A couple from Texas married on the Discovery Princess in the Caribbean. They obtained an apostille for their UK marriage certificate and successfully changed their names on their passports within three weeks. However, Texas required them to file a copy with the county clerk, which delayed their joint bank account setup by a month.

Case 2: A New York couple married on a Princess cruise but failed to get an apostille. When they applied for a joint mortgage, the bank requested a U.S.-issued marriage certificate. They had to pay a fee to have their UK certificate re-authenticated, adding time and cost to the process.

Princess Cruises Wedding Packages: What’s Included?

Standard vs. Premium Packages

Princess Cruises offers several wedding packages designed to cater to different budgets and preferences. The key packages include:

Package	Price Range	Included Services	Legal Support
Intimate Escape	$1,500–$2,000	Officiant, bouquet, boutonniere, cake, photography (30 min)	Coordination with UK GRO, marriage certificate
Grand Celebration	$3,000–$5,000	All of the above + champagne toast, 1-hour photography, live music	Apostille assistance, legal consultation
Ultimate Romance	$7,000+	All of the above + spa treatments, private dinner, suite upgrade	Dedicated wedding planner, expedited apostille

All packages include coordination with the UK General Register Office to ensure the marriage is legally valid. Premium packages (Grand Celebration and Ultimate Romance) offer additional legal support, such as apostille assistance and access to a wedding planner who can answer questions about U.S. recognition.

Customization and Guest Management

Princess Cruises allows couples to customize their wedding experience. Options include:

• Venue Selection: Ceremonies can be held on the deck, in a chapel, or in a private lounge.
• Guest Count: Intimate ceremonies (2–20 guests) are standard; larger events may require a private charter.
• Theme and Décor: Choose from tropical, classic, or modern themes with floral arrangements, lighting, and music.
• Post-Wedding Events: Receptions, vow renewals, and anniversary celebrations can be arranged.

Tip: Book at least 6–12 months in advance, especially for popular itineraries like Alaska or the Mediterranean. Princess Cruises recommends confirming the wedding date with your cruise itinerary to ensure the ship is in international waters.

Alternatives and Backup Plans for U.S.-Based Weddings

Getting Married in a U.S. Port Before the Cruise

If you want to ensure your marriage is recognized in the U.S. without complications, consider getting legally married in a U.S. port before boarding the cruise. This approach has several advantages:

• The marriage is governed by U.S. state law, eliminating the need for apostilles or foreign registration.
• You can use the U.S. marriage certificate immediately for name changes, tax filing, and other legal purposes.
• The cruise wedding can serve as a symbolic or celebratory event (e.g., vow renewal) rather than a legal one.

Example: A couple from Florida could get married in Miami (where the cruise departs) and then hold a “second wedding” on the ship for family and friends. This gives them the best of both worlds: legal security and a romantic cruise ceremony.

Symbolic Ceremonies on Board

For couples who don’t need a legal marriage at sea, Princess Cruises offers symbolic wedding packages. These include:

• A non-legally binding ceremony with a ship officer or third-party officiant.
• Custom vows, rings, and a keepsake certificate.
• No requirement for UK documentation or apostilles.

Symbolic ceremonies are ideal for couples who:

• Are already legally married.
• Want a wedding experience without the legal hassle.
• Are planning a destination wedding in a U.S. port later.

Post-Cruise Legalization Options

If you’ve already had a cruise wedding but need U.S. recognition, you can:

• Obtain an apostille for the UK marriage certificate and register it with your local county clerk.
• File a “foreign marriage recognition” petition in your state (required in some jurisdictions).
• Use the marriage certificate for immigration or visa applications, providing additional proof of relationship (e.g., joint bank statements).

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Princess Cruise Wedding with Confidence

A wedding aboard a Princess Cruise Line can be a magical and legally valid way to tie the knot—if you plan carefully. The key to success lies in understanding the jurisdictional framework, meeting UK legal requirements, and ensuring U.S. recognition through proper documentation and authentication. By filing the Notice of Marriage with the UK GRO, scheduling the ceremony in international waters, and obtaining an apostille for your marriage certificate, you can enjoy the romance of a cruise wedding without legal uncertainty.

For couples who prioritize simplicity and U.S. legal security, consider a pre-cruise wedding in a U.S. port or a symbolic ceremony on board. Princess Cruises’ wedding packages offer flexibility, support, and unforgettable experiences, making them a top choice for nautical weddings. Whether you’re saying “I do” under the stars in the Caribbean or surrounded by glaciers in Alaska, your marriage can be as legally sound as it is beautiful.

Remember, the sea may be vast, but your love—and your marriage—can be firmly grounded in law. Bon voyage and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are marriages aboard Princess Cruise Lines legally recognized in the US?

Yes, marriages performed on Princess Cruise Lines can be legally recognized in the US if they meet specific requirements, such as being officiated in international waters by an authorized crew member and complying with local marriage laws. Proper documentation, including a marriage license and certificate, must be filed correctly.

What makes a cruise ship wedding legal in the United States?

A cruise ship wedding is legal in the US if it follows the laws of the ship’s flag country and is conducted by an authorized officiant. Princess Cruise Lines ensures compliance by offering legally binding ceremonies in international waters, provided all paperwork is completed and filed.

Can I get married on a Princess Cruise without a US marriage license?

No, you typically need a marriage license issued by the ship’s flag country (e.g., Bermuda or the UK) or a state in the US, depending on the itinerary. Princess Cruise Lines helps couples navigate this process, but the license must align with the vessel’s legal jurisdiction.

Do Princess Cruise Lines provide legal wedding packages for US couples?

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines offers legal wedding packages for US couples, including ceremonies in international waters with authorized officiants. These packages often include assistance with documentation, ensuring the marriage is valid in the US.

Are marriages aboard Princess Cruise Lines valid if performed in US territorial waters?

No, marriages performed in US territorial waters (within 12 nautical miles of shore) require a local marriage license and officiant, which Princess Cruise Lines doesn’t facilitate. For legal recognition, ceremonies must occur in international waters under the ship’s flag country laws.

How long does it take to receive a legal marriage certificate from a Princess Cruise wedding?

The processing time varies but typically takes 4–8 weeks after the ceremony. Princess Cruise Lines submits the paperwork to the relevant authority, and the couple receives a certified copy by mail, which is valid in the US.