Do Any Cruise Lines Allow Dogs Find Out Which Ones Welcome Pets

Yes, some cruise lines do allow dogs, making it possible for pet owners to travel with their furry companions on select voyages. Holland America Line and Cunard are among the few that welcome dogs on specific itineraries, offering kennel services and onboard pet amenities—just be sure to book early and meet all requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Few cruise lines allow dogs: Only select luxury and river cruises welcome pets onboard.
• Check pet policies early: Each line has strict rules on breeds, sizes, and documentation.
• Book pet-friendly cabins: Limited availability—reserve pet-approved rooms well in advance.
• Prepare health records: Up-to-date vaccines and vet certificates are mandatory for boarding.
• Expect extra fees: Pet fees range from $25–$150+ per day—budget accordingly.
• Research shore excursions: Dogs often can’t disembark; plan pet care during port stops.

Do Any Cruise Lines Allow Dogs? Find Out Which Ones Welcome Pets

For pet owners, the idea of leaving their furry companions behind when planning a vacation can be heart-wrenching. Whether it’s a loyal dog who’s part of the family or a cherished pet that thrives on companionship, many travelers wonder: do any cruise lines allow dogs? The short answer is yes—but the reality is far more nuanced. Unlike airlines, which have standardized pet policies, cruise lines vary widely in their approach to animal companions. Some are fully pet-friendly, others allow pets only under specific circumstances, and many don’t permit them at all. Understanding the landscape of pet-friendly cruising can help you plan a vacation that includes your four-legged friend without unexpected surprises.

Cruise vacations offer relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences, but for dog lovers, the absence of their canine companion can make the trip feel incomplete. The good news is that the cruising industry has begun to recognize this demand. Over the past decade, a handful of cruise lines have introduced pet-friendly policies, onboard kennels, and even pet concierge services. From transatlantic voyages to luxury river cruises, options are expanding—though they often come with strict regulations, limited availability, and additional costs. This guide dives deep into the world of pet-friendly cruising, answering the burning question: do any cruise lines allow dogs? We’ll explore which lines welcome pets, what rules apply, how to prepare your dog, and what alternatives exist for those whose preferred cruise doesn’t allow animals onboard.

Understanding Cruise Line Pet Policies: The Basics

Why Most Cruise Lines Don’t Allow Dogs

The majority of mainstream cruise lines—such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC—do not allow dogs in staterooms or public areas. The primary reasons are multifaceted. First, health and safety regulations play a major role. Cruise ships are densely populated environments with shared ventilation systems, dining areas, and recreational spaces. Allowing pets could pose risks related to allergies, sanitation, and disease transmission. Additionally, many cruise lines operate in international waters and must comply with strict port regulations. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the EU have rigorous quarantine laws for animals, making it difficult for cruise lines to accommodate pets without extensive logistical support.

Another factor is the lack of on-board veterinary care. Unlike land-based resorts, cruise ships typically don’t have veterinarians or pet emergency services. In the event of a medical issue, the nearest animal hospital could be days away. Finally, there are concerns about pet behavior in confined spaces. Barking, separation anxiety, or accidents in public areas could disrupt the experience for other guests. These challenges explain why only a select few cruise lines have taken the plunge into pet-friendly cruising.

Common Exceptions: Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals

While most cruise lines don’t allow pets, they are legally required to accommodate service animals for guests with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and similar international laws. A service animal is specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability—such as guiding a visually impaired individual, alerting to seizures, or calming someone with PTSD. These animals are not considered pets and must be allowed in cabins and most public areas.

However, the rules for emotional support animals (ESAs) are more complex. As of recent regulatory changes, ESAs are no longer granted the same legal protections as service animals. Most cruise lines now require documentation proving the animal is a trained service animal, not just an ESA. For example, Royal Caribbean and Carnival require a letter from a licensed healthcare professional, proof of training, and advance notice of at least 30 days. Even then, the animal may be restricted from dining areas or pools. Always verify the specific cruise line’s current policy before booking.

Key Factors to Consider Before Bringing Your Dog

• Dog Breed and Size: Some cruise lines limit pets to small dogs (under 20 lbs), while others may allow larger breeds in designated kennels.
• Vaccination Records: All pet-friendly cruises require up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and bordetella. A health certificate from a licensed vet is often mandatory.
• Behavior and Temperament: Dogs must be well-socialized, non-aggressive, and capable of handling new environments without excessive barking.
• Travel Duration: Longer voyages (e.g., transatlantic cruises) may require more planning, including pet relief areas and exercise schedules.
• Cost: Pet fees can range from $50 to $300+ per voyage, plus additional charges for kennel use or onboard services.

Which Cruise Lines Actually Allow Dogs Onboard?

1. Cunard Line: Luxury Transatlantic Pet Cruises

Cunard Line, known for its elegant ocean liners like the Queen Mary 2, is the most established cruise line offering dedicated pet-friendly services. The Queen Mary 2 features a state-of-the-art kennel facility on Deck 12, specifically designed for dogs and cats. This makes it the only cruise ship in the world with a full-service pet area, complete with climate control, outdoor relief zones, and daily exercise walks.

Key features of Cunard’s pet program include:

• Kennel capacity for up to 24 pets (12 dogs and 12 cats).
• Daily walks and playtime supervised by a dedicated pet steward.
• Custom kennel sizes based on pet dimensions.
• Optional grooming and feeding services (extra fee).
• Pet-friendly shore excursions in select ports (e.g., Southampton, Cherbourg).

However, pets are not allowed in staterooms or public areas. Owners can visit their pets during designated hours (typically 9 AM–6 PM). The cost is approximately $800–$1,200 per pet for a transatlantic crossing, depending on kennel size. Reservations must be made at least 90 days in advance, and availability is limited—so early booking is essential.

2. P&O Cruises (UK): Pet Kennels on Select Ships

P&O Cruises, a British cruise line operating in the UK and Australia, offers pet kennels on select vessels, including the Arcadia, Azura, and Britannia. Similar to Cunard, pets are housed in dedicated onboard kennels and are not permitted in passenger areas. The program is designed primarily for UK residents traveling on round-trip cruises to Europe or transatlantic voyages.

Highlights include:

• Kennels with indoor and outdoor access.
• Daily exercise and feeding by trained staff.
• Pet relief zones on the ship’s exterior decks.
• Requirement for DEFRA-compliant pet passports (for EU travel).

Fees start at £250 (approx. $320) per pet for a 7-night cruise. Like Cunard, advance booking is required, and only one pet per cabin is allowed. P&O also offers a pet concierge service to assist with documentation, travel prep, and onboard care.

3. American Cruise Lines: River Cruises with Pet-Friendly Cabins

Breaking the mold, American Cruise Lines (ACL) allows dogs and cats to stay in staterooms on its fleet of small river and coastal cruise ships. This is a game-changer for pet owners who want to keep their dogs close throughout the journey. ACL operates vessels on the Mississippi River, Pacific Northwest, and Eastern Seaboard, with itineraries ranging from 5 to 21 days.

ACL’s pet policy includes:

• One pet per stateroom (dogs and cats accepted).
• No size or breed restrictions (though larger dogs may require approval).
• Pet relief areas on exterior decks at each port.
• Optional pet bed, food, and waste cleanup kits provided.
• No additional pet fee, though a $100 cleaning deposit is required (refundable).

This policy makes ACL ideal for travelers who want a true pet-inclusive experience. However, the fleet is small (around 15 ships), and availability is limited. Itineraries often include stops in pet-friendly towns like Natchez, New Orleans, and Charleston, where dogs can join shore excursions.

4. Viking River Cruises: Pet Policy Update (2023)

In 2023, Viking River Cruises introduced a limited pet policy for its European river voyages. While not as comprehensive as ACL, Viking now allows dogs on select sailings along the Rhine, Danube, and Moselle rivers. The policy applies to Viking Longships operating in Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

Key details:

• One small dog (under 20 lbs) per stateroom.
• Pet must remain in the cabin or in designated pet relief zones on deck.
• No pets in dining rooms, lounges, or excursion buses.
• Required: vaccination records, pet passport, and advance notification (60 days).
• Fee: $150 per pet per cruise.

Viking’s policy is a step forward in pet-inclusive river cruising, but it’s not available on all ships or itineraries. Always check the specific voyage details before booking.

Preparing Your Dog for a Cruise: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Health and Documentation

Before booking, schedule a vet visit to ensure your dog is healthy enough for travel. Obtain:

• A health certificate issued within 10 days of departure.
• Proof of core vaccinations (rabies, distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus).
• Flea and tick prevention (many cruise lines require monthly treatments).
• Microchip (required for EU and UK entry).
• Pet passport (if traveling to Europe).

For transatlantic cruises, your dog may need additional tests (e.g., tapeworm treatment for UK entry). Allow at least 4–6 weeks for documentation processing.

Step 2: Training and Behavior Prep

Cruise environments can be overwhelming for dogs. To ensure a smooth trip:

• Train your dog to walk on a leash and respond to basic commands (sit, stay, come).
• Introduce crate or kennel training if your dog will be staying in a kennel.
• Expose your dog to new sounds and environments (e.g., vacuum cleaners, crowds, boats).
• Consider a trial overnight trip in a pet-friendly hotel to test adaptability.

Bring familiar items like a favorite toy, blanket, or bed to provide comfort during the voyage.

Step 3: Packing Essentials

Create a pet travel kit with:

• Food and treats (bring extra in case of delays).
• Collapsible bowls and a water bottle.
• Leash, harness, and ID tags.
• Waste bags and cleaning supplies.
• Medications and first-aid items.
• Travel carrier or crate (if required).

Label all items with your contact information and the cruise ship’s name.

Step 4: Onboard Routine and Safety

Once onboard, establish a routine:

• Visit your dog during designated kennel hours (Cunard, P&O).
• Take frequent walks during port stops (ACL, Viking).
• Monitor your dog for signs of stress (panting, whining, lethargy).
• Use calming aids (e.g., anxiety vests, pheromone sprays) if needed.

Never leave your dog unattended in a cabin unless the cruise line permits it (ACL does; others don’t).

Alternatives to Pet-Friendly Cruises

Pet-Friendly Land-Based Resorts Near Ports

If your preferred cruise doesn’t allow pets, consider a split vacation. Spend part of your trip at a pet-friendly resort near the port. For example:

• Miami: The Palms Hotel & Spa (allows dogs up to 40 lbs).
• Barcelona: Hotel Arts Barcelona (pet welcome program).
• Honolulu: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort (pet concierge).

Drop off your dog at the resort before boarding the cruise, then reunite after disembarking. Many resorts offer pet daycare or boarding services.

Pet Boarding and Daycare Services

Reputable pet boarding facilities near major cruise terminals can provide safe, comfortable care. Look for:

• 24/7 supervision and vet access.
• Climate-controlled kennels.
• Webcam monitoring.
• Pickup/drop-off services from the port.

Popular options include:

• DogVacay (now part of Rover) – nationwide network.
• PetSmart PetsHotel – locations in Miami, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
• Local boutique kennels – often offer personalized care.

Pet Relocation and Transport Services

For long-term travelers, pet relocation companies can transport your dog to a destination country and arrange temporary housing. Services like PetReloc or Animal Airways handle customs, quarantine, and transportation. This is ideal for multi-leg trips or extended stays abroad.

Comparing Pet-Friendly Cruise Options: A Data Table

Cruise Line	Pet Allowed in Cabin?	Kennel Onboard?	Pet Fee	Max Pet Size/Weight	Best For
Cunard Line	No	Yes (QM2 only)	$800–$1,200	No strict limit	Transatlantic voyages
P&O Cruises	No	Yes (select ships)	£250 ($320)	No strict limit	UK/Europe cruises
American Cruise Lines	Yes	No	$100 deposit	No restrictions	River & coastal cruises
Viking River Cruises	Yes (small dogs only)	No	$150	20 lbs max	European river cruises
Holland America Line	No (service animals only)	No	Free (service animals)	As per ADA	Guests with disabilities
Royal Caribbean	No (service animals only)	No	Free (service animals)	As per ADA	Guests with disabilities

Final Thoughts: Is a Pet-Friendly Cruise Right for You?

So, do any cruise lines allow dogs? Absolutely—but your options are limited to a select few. Cunard and P&O offer the most established kennel-based programs for transatlantic and European voyages, while American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises break new ground with pet-inclusive cabins on smaller, intimate vessels. For service animal owners, mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean and Holland America provide accommodations under legal requirements.

Before you set sail, remember that pet-friendly cruising demands extra planning, time, and expense. It’s not as simple as booking a regular cruise. You’ll need to secure documentation, train your dog, and often pay significant fees. But for many pet owners, the ability to include their dog in a vacation—even in a kennel—is worth the effort. The joy of reuniting after days at sea, or the comfort of having your dog by your side in a cabin, can make the journey unforgettable.

As the travel industry evolves, demand for pet-inclusive experiences is likely to grow. More cruise lines may introduce pet-friendly policies, especially on niche and luxury vessels. Until then, use this guide to explore your options, weigh the pros and cons, and plan a vacation that works for both you and your furry friend. Whether you choose a transatlantic crossing with Cunard, a river cruise with Viking, or a land-based resort near the port, the dream of a dog-inclusive vacation is closer than ever. Bon voyage—and don’t forget the dog treats!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any cruise lines allow dogs on board?

Yes, a few cruise lines permit dogs on select ships and itineraries, though strict policies apply. Examples include Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 (transatlantic sailings) and select pet-friendly river cruises like Uniworld.

Which cruise lines allow dogs in cabins?

Most pet-friendly cruise lines require dogs to stay in designated kennels, but Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 allows dogs in onboard kennels with limited cabin access. Always check the cruise line’s pet policy for specifics.

Are there cruise lines that allow dogs on European river cruises?

Yes, select European river cruise lines like AmaWaterways and Scenic Luxury Cruises allow small dogs (under 30 lbs) on certain sailings. Weight limits, fees, and advance approval are typically required.

Do any cruise lines allow dogs in Alaska?

While most Alaska cruises don’t permit pets, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth allows dogs on select Alaska itineraries in onboard kennels. Holland America also permits service dogs on all Alaska voyages.

What are the costs for bringing a dog on a cruise?

Fees vary by cruise line but typically range from $50–$200 per voyage for kennels. Additional costs may include documentation, vaccinations, and pet care services. Always confirm with the cruise line.

Do any cruise lines allow dogs on excursions or in common areas?

Most cruise lines restrict dogs to kennels or private cabins, with limited access to outdoor areas. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 offers a dedicated dog-walking deck, but pets rarely join excursions due to port regulations.