Ahoy, Amy! Thanks for sailing by planDisney with your question! It sounds like you’re getting ready to set sail during the Most Magical Time of the Year, and I’m so happy to help you prepare for your
Very Merrytime Cruise.
For a closed-loop
Disney Cruise to the Bahamas, meaning your cruise begins and ends at the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens are not required to have a passport. Adults may sail with a valid government-issued photo ID and an original state-issued birth certificate. For your 9-year-old, only an original birth certificate is required (children 15 and under do not need a government-issued photo ID). And just remember that even if you upload documents during online check-in, you must bring the originals with you on embarkation day... more on that in a minute.
However,
a passport is strongly recommended. While many Guests sail to the Bahamas without one and never encounter an issue, a passport is the fastest and easiest way to return home by air in the unlikely event of an emergency in a foreign port. My family has always chosen to use passports for that peace of mind, but I completely understand that when travel dates are approaching quickly, getting one in time can be tough. You’ll be able to board the ship without a problem; just be aware of the caveats, even though they’re rare.
Since we’re on the topic, I just completed online check-in this week for my upcoming Disney Destiny cruise, so it’s all fresh in my mind! You’ll be asked to upload photos of your government-issued ID and your birth certificates, along with a recent forward-facing color security photo for each Guest in your party. These security photos can be headshots taken with your phone against a plain background, but no filters, hats, glasses, or glare. Because check-in opens at midnight on your eligibility date (based on your
Castaway Club level), I like to have all document photos saved to my camera roll ahead of time to make things quick and stress-free. And take it from me… set a reminder on your phone to bring the originals to port. I learned that lesson the hard way once (story for another day, wink wink)!
I hope your Merrytime Cruise is filled with magic and smooth sailing, Amy!
Sea ya real soon,
Eean