Ahoy, Tammie!
For your Western Caribbean sailing, a passport is not required, but you will need a state-issued driver's license AND a birth certificate for each adult sailing and a birth certificate for each child sailing. But, if you have the time and the means, I would highly recommend getting passports for each member of your family. Our family always travels with passports, one of the main
benefits being if something unthinkable happens in a foreign country, we already have the necessary documentation to travel home from that country.
An adult passport is valid for ten years, while a child's is only good for five years. For us, this is money we are willing to spend. Also, by having our passports, we are ready to travel at the drop of a hat! You never know when a great deal is going to come up that you would like to take advantage of!
The Western Caribbean itinerary includes one of my most favorite ports, Grand Cayman. Our favorite Port Adventure is the "
Island Tour and Snorkeling with Stingrays." My children had an amazing time visiting the turtle farm and then getting into the water with the stingrays.
I hope this helps with your planning! Please let me know if I can answer more questions before you embark on your cruise.
Happy Cruising, Tracy V.