Traveling with pets
Guidelines for traveling with pets on international cruises or ferries that have specific animal policies and containment rules.
Traveling with pets aboard international cruises or ferries requires careful planning, awareness of each carrier’s rules, and proactive containment strategies to keep companions safe, compliant, and comfortable throughout the journey.
July 29, 2025 - 3 min Read
When planning a voyage that includes pets, travelers should begin by researching the exact policies of each leg of the journey, including the ship or ferry line’s pet accommodations, breed or size restrictions, vaccination requirements, and any mandatory containment devices. Policies often differ by destination country and by vessel, so compiling a side-by-side comparison helps prevent last-minute surprises. It’s also wise to confirm whether the pet will stay in a cabin, a dedicated pet deck, or a separate pet area, and whether supervised outdoor access is available during port calls. Early confirmation reduces stress and ensures smoother check-in.
Beyond formal policies, practical preparation makes a meaningful difference once aboard. Owners should verify that their pet’s microchip is up to date and that a current photo is stored in the carrier or on a mobile device in case of separation. Carrying a recent health certificate, injectable records, and any required parasite control documentation is essential, as some routes demand proof at embarkation or during inspections at ports of call. Weighing the pet’s temperament and needs against travel times helps determine whether shorter segments or more frequent breaks will minimize distress.
Prepare thoroughly with documentation, containment, and comfort in mind.
Containment policies often hinge on the type of carrier permitted in cabins or on public decks. Some lines require hard-sided kennels for larger dogs, while soft carriers may be restricted to smaller animals kept under seats or in cabins. There may also be limits on how many pets a single cabin can hold, with additional fees for extra animals. Understanding these specifics avoids space conflicts and ensures the pet has appropriate shelter and ventilation. It’s prudent to practice staying calm inside a carrier before travel, allowing the animal to become familiar with the environment to reduce anxiety during boarding.
Before departure, owners should program a personalized routine that mirrors the pet’s usual schedule as closely as possible. Calming pre-flight or pre-embarkation practices, like gentle brushing, a short walk, and a familiar toy, can ease nervousness. Packing a familiar blanket or garment that carries the owner’s scent can provide reassurance during stressful moments, while a familiar food routine helps prevent GI upset. If seasickness or motion sensitivity is a concern, consult a veterinarian about safe anti-nausea strategies that are appropriate for use on ships or ferries.
Pack strategically to cover every stage of the voyage.
Documentation should be organized into a single, easy-to-access folder that includes vaccination records, recent health certificates, and any country-specific forms required for entry or transit. Many international routes demand advanced permits or owner acknowledgments about containment policies. Having digital copies on a phone or tablet, along with printed backups, ensures rapid retrieval during check-in or when authorities request them. Additionally, keep a list of emergency contacts, including the pet’s veterinarian, a local clinic at the destination, and the ship or ferry line’s emergency line.
Containment choices extend beyond the carrier to include behavior management tools and safety accessories. A sturdy, escape-proof carrier that fits the cabin or designated pet area is essential. Consider a harness and leash for supervised deck time, plus a collapsible water dish and a compact potty solution if the route offers permitted outdoor breaks. Check that the carrier has ample ventilation and durable materials that can withstand repeated handling by crew, ports, and security checks during boarding and disembarkation.
Safety, care, and communication should guide every step.
On board, it’s important to establish a safe, quiet space for the pet away from heavy foot traffic and noisy machinery. If the ship provides a designated pet room or deck, introduce the pet gradually to that area under close supervision. Maintain a regular schedule for meals, walks, litter or potty breaks, and rest periods. Use familiar soothing sounds or music and keep the carrier door securely closed when not actively attending to the animal. Language barriers at ports can complicate care; thus, clear labeling of supplies helps crew members respond promptly to requests.
For longer journeys, plan for daily routines that respect the pet’s needs while accommodating the ship’s schedule. It may be necessary to coordinate with crew for calm, supervised walk times, or to request a temporary barrier to reduce exposure to unfamiliar scents and crowds. If the voyage includes multiple ports, verify how long the pet can safely wait between breaks, and arrange appropriate feeding windows that align with cabin temperature controls and the vessel’s noise cycles. Always have a contingency plan in case a port visit is delayed or canceled.
Re-entry and post-travel steps for pet safety and comfort.
It’s crucial to stay vigilant for symptoms of stress or discomfort in pets during travel. Signs such as excessive panting, drooling, trembling, or reluctance to eat may indicate distress, requiring a quiet respite or, if necessary, a visit to a veterinary professional aboard or at a port facility. Having a first-aid kit tailored to pets—with basic wound care items, wipes, and antiseptic solutions—can address minor concerns promptly. If motion-related issues arise, consult a veterinarian for safe, ship-appropriate recommendations before boarding.
Communication with crew and port officials helps ensure seamless handling of containment needs. When arriving at new destinations, alert staff to the presence of the animal, and follow posted guidelines for leash use, waste disposal, and quiet zones. Some routes require additional screening or documentation at each port, which can be time-consuming; staying patient and prepared makes these checks less stressful for everyone involved. Keeping your pet’s microchip registry up to date also supports faster reunification if a separation occurs.
After the voyage, thoroughly inspect the pet for any injuries or signs of fatigue and provide a calm, extended rest period. Rehydration and gradual reintroduction to home routines help reset the animal’s rhythm after travel. If the trip involved extreme temperature changes, monitor for dehydration or heat-related stress and consult a veterinarian if there are lingering concerns. Keep an ongoing record of travel experiences, noting which containment setups and routines proved most effective for future journeys.
Finally, reflect on the overall experience to improve future trips. Consider whether the chosen carrier, cabin location, and port timing minimized stress and allowed for sufficient rest. Share feedback with the cruise or ferry line’s customer service to influence improvements in pet policies or on-board amenities. By documenting what worked and what didn’t, travelers can streamline planning and advocate for friendlier, more predictable travel for animals on international routes.
