Hello, Chuck, and congratulations on being Grandparents-of-the-Year! I'm so excited to hear that you're considering a Disney Cruise with your grandkids! What a magical voyage that will be! I understand that planning for a new adventure can feel like you're in uncharted waters sometimes, so you've come to the right place to answer any questions you may have before heading out on the high seas.
Each Disney Cruise itinerary has its own travel documentation requirements, so whether or not a passport is required for your grandchildren will depend on which itinerary you choose and how old they are. I recommend visiting
the Disney Cruise Line website to review details regarding passport and travel documentation requirements for your particular Disney Cruise sailing and hopefully will answer any questions you may have. It's likely your grandchildren will need either their passport OR an original state-issued birth certificate. But again, depends on the itinerary and their age. For instance, children 16 years of age and older are required to present a government-issued photo ID, in addition to an original state-issued birth certificate.
It is very important for you to know, however, that if you are not the legal guardian of your grandkids, you'll also need to present a
Minor Authorization Form, completed and signed by your grandchildren's parent or legal guardian, authorizing you to supervise them and allow emergency medical treatment to be administered if necessary. Keep copies in your carry-on luggage, as well as your grandkids' carry-on luggage. It's also not a bad idea to leave a copy at home with their parent or guardian, for safekeeping.
Chuck, I sincerely can't wait for you and your grandkids to experience the incredible activities and fun onboard your cruise. If your grandkids are anything like my boys, they'll love watching movies in the theater, the unlimited soft-serve ice cream on the pool deck, and the video games at Kids Club. But no matter how you all decide to spend your time, you and your family will be making memories together that will last a lifetime - because you're the magic, Grandpa.
If you have any other questions that come up in your planning, Chuck, please don't hesitate to sail on by and visit your
planDisney pals again, anytime. We'd be honored to help make the dream of a Disney Cruise with your grandkids a reality.
Magic awaits,
McCayla