Ahoy there, Katie! Thanks for sailing my way here at planDisney!
I'm so glad you're considering an incredible Western Caribbean itinerary with a stop in Grand Cayman! As one of the most recent destinations to reopen to cruise ships, it is such an exciting time to see the Disney Cruise Line fleet scheduling this Port of Call again! As a SCUBA diver, Grand Cayman is one of my favorite ports because of the
Certified SCUBA Port Adventure that is available, but whether you're looking to dive,
experience the pristine beaches, or simply stroll around the port of George Town, you're sure to have an incredible time!
Regarding
Passport and Travel Documentation Requirements, for closed-loop cruises departing from a US port, US citizens currently need to provide either an original valid U.S. Passport, Passport Card, Trusted Traveler Card, OR an Original or copy of their state-issued birth certificate AND Government-issued photo ID. So the good news is that a passport is not a strict requirement as long as you can provide a birth certificate and photo ID!
That said, I HIGHLY suggest traveling with a passport whenever possible. If for any reason during your cruise it becomes necessary to return to the US from a foreign port, a passport makes that a much simpler process than spending hours, days - or even weeks - at an Embassy...I have a friend that once was delayed for WEEKS in the Eastern Caribbean because he didn't have his passport and missed his ship after returning from an excursion not booked through his cruise line. He still tells the story about how he always thought being, "trapped on a tropical island would be a lot more fun than it actually was."
Well Katie, I hope that helps you chart a course for your Western Caribbean Adventure! Thank you so much for your question, and if any others bubble to the surface while you continue planning, you know where to find us here at planDisney! We're always happy to give you a new heading!
I wish you fair winds and following seas!
Andrew