Ahoy, Rhonda, and welcome to planDisney! You've come to the right place – I sailed between San Diego and Ensenada last year and am happy to answer this question for you.
Roundtrip sailings from San Diego offer some flexibility when it comes to travel documentation. While an original valid passport can be used, it isn't required. Instead, U.S. citizens can present an original state-issued birth certificate along with a physical government-issued photo ID. Children ages 15 and younger can travel with just an original birth certificate. The
Passports, Visas & Citizenship Documentation page on the Disney Cruise Line website lists the current requirements for various sailings – be sure to review this page again before your cruise.
When my family went on a Disney cruise to
Ensenada, my husband brought his birth certificate and driver's license since his passport had expired. I didn't have passports for my kids at the time, so I brought their birth certificates. It worked out just fine.
That said, Disney Cruise Line highlights a few
advantages of having a passport, with the biggest being the peace of mind it provides. If something unexpected happens while you're outside the U.S., a passport can make it much easier to arrange alternate travel.
You'll upload your selected travel documents during the
online check-in process, which typically begins around a month before embarkation day. Make sure you bring these same documents along as you check in at the terminal.
If you're heading to Ensenada, Rhonda, you'll be on either the
Disney Wonder or the
Disney Magic. These ships are smaller than others in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, but they pack a lot of fun. I really enjoy these ships because they're easy to navigate and have a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Plus, both have the
features Disney Cruise Line is known for, including Broadway-style shows, Main Dining restaurants, onboard amenities, Character meet-and-greets, and more! You'll love it.
Rhonda, if you think of any other questions about Disney Cruise Line or other Disney vacation destinations, please reach out. We're always happy to help here at planDisney!
Smooth sailing ahead,
Kriss