Ahoy and welcome to planDisney, Kristina. At 8 and 13 years old, your children are in for the time of their lives aboard
Disney Cruise Line.
Regarding your question on passports, everyone in my family has one as I like the
security of having passports, just in case. You do not need these at the time of booking, but you will as your cruise date approaches. Around 30 days before the cruise departure, an adult will complete Online Check-in for everyone in the stateroom and will upload pictures of everyone's
travel documentation, such as a passport or original state-issued birth certificate. These documents are also needed to check in at the port and to return after the cruise.
I can't tell from your question if your children will be traveling with you or with other family members. If they are cruising without their parents or legal guardians, the adults with them will need a completed
Authorization for a Minor to Travel without a Parent or Legal Guardian, even if they are related. This will need to be signed by you or their other parent and certified by a Notary Public.
I hope this helps with all the documentation and permission forms that may be needed for the cruise. Please come back to
planDisney with any other questions as you plan for an adventure at sea.
Happy planning!
Jana