Take passports while at ports?

[evandbob]

Aside from personal preference and comfortability, doesn't it really depend on the port and what you are doing there?

 

HMC and GT I don't need my passport since I'm usually in sight of the ship.  {I don't drink, so I can't get wasted and pass out and miss the ship sailing.}

 

For those who don't wander from the port area like Costa Maya or Roatan, so what if you don't have your passport.  If you're going away from the port on an independent tour, then maybe bring it.

 

In Alaska I didn't bring my passport off ship since we were doing ship excursions, but if we went off on our own, we would have.

 

In Europe I tend to keep my passport on my person.  I'll be bringing it onshore in Spain during our NCL TA later this month.  And when we do Norway on the Legend in June 2020, we'll have our passports on our person during our tours.

 

Then there are ports where you can't even enter if you don't have a passport, like Cuba, Russia or some Asian and possibly North African or Middle Eastern countries.

 

 

[dogs4fun]

41 minutes ago, evandbob said:

Then there are ports where you can't even enter if you don't have a passport, like Cuba, Russia or some Asian and possibly North African or Middle Eastern countries.

In the ports listed above, you must carry your passport. I carry a copy in the other european ports that I visit - my personal preference. I never book ship excursions - I book independent operators or DIY. I have never missed the ship. However, it is my understanding that in the event that the ship leaves without you, your passport is retrieved from your stateroom and left with the port management.

One must do whatever makes them most comfortable - if you feel safer with carrying your passport that is your choice.

Edited April 3, 2019 by dogs4fun

[wheezedr]

1 hour ago, evandbob said:

 

In Alaska I didn't bring my passport off ship since we were doing ship excursions, but if we went off on our own, we would have.

 

 

 

 

One of the great ironies is that in Skagway if you do a land tour which crosses into the Yukon you will need your Passport to return to the USA.  Tour company we went with was very specific about this and we had to delay while others went back aboard ship to get their passports.

[K32682]

I carry mine. I don't have to worry about not having it if I need it or if I'm in a country where it is required.  I've needed it in the past for mundane matters such as renting a vehicle, checking in at a hotel, going to a casino, changing money, using a credit card, entering a game preserve and for more serious issues like roadside stops.  My mode of carry is quite secure and I am far less worried about it being stolen than not having it if needed.  A copy of the passport info page is in the cabin safe and on a jpeg in my phone.   

Edited April 4, 2019 by K32682

[boltnut55]

I've only been to Canada and Mexico, and last month in Mexico was the only time I realized it wasn't required!  I took it with me anyway... my excuse was what if I got arrested😁  Next time I'll bring a copy with me instead.

[raye70]

I always have a copy of my passport on me. if the ship keeps it fine if not it is in the safe. Traveling internationally it stays in safe at hotel only copy comes with me.  Never had problem even when I lived in China.