cruisin_fanatic

Maddea20 - my comments are not mean't in a nasty way it is just amazing or rather shocking how many people are just not aware of what kind of danger they might be putting themselves into....

I dont think that its because people are not aware...

In my case, I am aware but I was just not ready to foot the bill yet. In some other folks case, it could be that they travel so little that they dont think its worth the cost for them. But being that it is soon going to be mandatory to have one for travel...I think when push comes to shove people will handle their business since there wont be any other option.

Hi! Everyone! I am new to the board and a first time cruiser.(hopefully i will be a repeat cruiser- hubby is not so sure about the whole cruise thing) We are going on a cruise soon and we are wondering who all will be using just there birth certificate and drivers license since it is not mandantory that you have a passport yet? :)

I will be cruising soon in April this year and I'm gonna hold off until later in the year to get my passport. I'm getting it later this year because I know eventually we will need it and its just a safe thing to have. But for my April cruise, I will just use my BC and DL.

It would be a good idea to get them, but they arent required yet. You can still cruise with a BC and DL

Thanks Dayton...yest its a good idea to get them and I will this year, just didnt anticipate to have to get them by April but will get them by Dec 07.

No you do not have to have passports. The only problem would be if you had to fly back from any of the ports(other than Florida). If you missed the ship, were ill or injured and had to be detained, etc.. The new passport regulations are very confusing. You do not need them for cruises until June 2008 unless your departure port is not in the US, i.e. San Juan.

Thanks so much MaryAnn for the "short" answer to my question.:)

I do plan to get our passports this year, but I'm glad that I dont have to do it so soon. I think they are great to have in unexpected situations when outside the country etc..and are your best protection.

Thanks again:D

I need to get clarification about the new passport rules to see if I need to obtain one this year or if I can wait.

I am booked for a cruise for April 22-29 flying from Tennessee to Florida. The cruise goes to Nassau,Bahamas, ST.Thomas and St. Marten. Do we need to purchase passports or not?

Thanking you in advance.:D