Overview shot of ship and sea; Castaway Cay
  • On Feb 4, 2024
    Virginia from IA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Do you have to have a passport when departing from Florida and cruising to the Bahamas or Mexico? Will a birth certificate suffice? We have expedited passports but I am nervous about receiving them in time. The FAQs were not clear to me.

    Hi Virginia,

    Thanks for cruisin' on over to planDisney with your question. We love getting to know new Disney pals. Welcome aboard!

    As long as your Disney Cruise Line Voyage is round trip and a "Closed loop," meaning that you depart from and return to the same US Port, a passport is not required. If they do not arrive in time, you can verify your citizenship with an original or certified copy of your state-issued birth certificate AND a valid government-issued ID, such as a valid Driver License. Children 15- years old and younger are not required to present the ID, only the birth certificate. 

    Now, Virginia, I do want to share with you that I have my fingers and toes crossed for you to receive your passports in time! They do offer an extra layer of protection. You see, in the case of an emergency where you would need to fly home from a foreign Port of Call rather than sail home, a passport is required. With that in mind, I always recommend them. 

    When your passports do arrive (I am wishing on a star!) consider making a few photocopies of the information page. I like to leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member on land and put a copy or two in our luggage. If a passport were to get lost while outside the country, this could help expedite the replacement process. I am the kind of gal who loves to travel, but find me at the airport exceedingly early and with printed copies of everything! Better safe than sorry!

    Since you will be enjoying the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas on your upcoming voyage, I believe you are making a stop at Disney Castaway Cay. Virginia, I wanted to make sure that you know about my favorite part of a day on my favorite island: Castaway Cay 5k

    This relaxed-pace challenge begins by the bike, winds through natural areas, opens up on the old runway on the island, and finishes back where you began. Stop by the booth right there to pick up the ultimate souvenir, your Castaway Cay 5k Finisher Medallion! There is no need to sign up in advance, no pace requirement to keep, and only encouragement from your fellow runners, cyclists, and walkers out on the beautiful course. It's the best way to begin a practically perfect day. Try it!

    I hope that was helpful, Virginia. I'll be thinking happy thoughts about your passport package. 

    Swim on back by with any other questions in the meantime. We are here for you. 

    Adventure is out there,

    Sally

thumbnail image for Sally

Meet the Panelist: Sally, Georgia

"To all who come to this happy place, welcome." I am the lucky wife to my brave Prince, a homeschool mom to two bold and brilliant daughters, and a wine educator. Joining the Disney Vacation Club meant that our family could travel to a "World of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy" as often as we could sneak away, so we do! I'm so glad you have joined us and would be thrilled to sprinkle a little Pixie Dust on your next unforgettable vacation! Learn More About Sally

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