Do I need a passport to go on a Carnival Cruise?

Yes, a passport is required for most Carnival Cruises. All guests, including children, must possess a valid passport to travel on any itinerary that includes stops in international ports of call, such as the Caribbean, Europe, and other destinations. It is advisable to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your scheduled departure date to avoid any issues. However, for closed-loop cruises, departing and returning to the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens may be allowed to travel with alternative documents, such as a government-issued birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to have a passport as it simplifies the entry process at various ports and allows for more flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances or itinerary changes.