As of June 1, 2009, the WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) requires a valid passport for land, sea and air travel between two different U.S. ports, or a U.S. port and an international port of call. Prior to that date, proof of U.S. citizenship and a valid I.D. are the only requirements.
WHTI applies to all cruisers who are traveling to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, the U.S. and Bermuda.
WHTI allows for the use of a new type of travel document--the passport card. This card allows land and sea travel only, and is not valid for air travel. It is significantly less expensive than a passport-only $45 for adults and $35 for children.
If your cruise begins and ends at the same U.S. port (as many Alaskan cruises do), you do not need a passport.
If you don't have proper travel documents, you will not be allowed to board a cruise ship, even with a fully paid reservation.
