Can Felons Go on Cruise Ships? Rules, Restrictions & Travel Rights

Can a felon go on a cruise ship? It’s a question thousands of Americans ask every year. While a felony record does carry legal restrictions, cruising isn’t off-limits for everyone.

Can Felons Go on Cruise Ships?

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, over 6.1 million adults in the U.S. have a felony conviction on their record. That’s nearly 1 in 38 people across the country. Now, here’s the big question: Can felons go on cruise ships? Short answer: Yes, many felons can go on cruises, but not all.

Can a Felon Legally Board a Cruise Ship?

Felons are not automatically banned from going on a cruise. There is no U.S. federal law that prohibits someone with a felony from booking or boarding a cruise ship. However, there are three major things that affect a felon’s ability to cruise:

1. Type of Cruise (Closed-loop vs. Open-loop)

• Closed-loop cruise: Starts and ends at the same U.S. port and travels to destinations in the Western Hemisphere (Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, etc.)
  • Felons can usually go without a passport, as long as they bring proof of citizenship (birth certificate + photo ID).
• Open-loop cruise: Starts and ends in different ports, especially if international.
  • Felons need a passport, and that’s where the issues may start.

Can Felons Get a U.S. Passport?

This is often the make-or-break point for felons planning a cruise.

✅ Felons Can Get a Passport — With Exceptions

The U.S. Department of State says:

“Most felony convictions do not prevent a person from getting a passport.”

But, there are 5 major exceptions:

Do Cruise Lines Allow Felons on Board?

Cruise companies are private businesses. That means they can set their own policies when it comes to passengers with criminal records.

Let’s take a look at major cruise lines:

1. Carnival Cruise Line

• Felons can book cruises, but Carnival reserves the right to deny boarding based on criminal history.
• You must disclose your criminal background if asked.

2. Royal Caribbean

• Allows felons onboard closed-loop cruises.
• May deny boarding for open-loop or international cruises if the felony is serious (e.g. assault, child exploitation).

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

• Similar to Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
• Background checks may be done during booking or check-in, especially if the ship docks in countries with travel restrictions.

Which Cruise Destinations Allow Felons?

Now comes the tricky part. Even if the cruise line says “you’re good to go,” the country you’re visiting might not agree.

Here are some of the most common cruise destinations and their policies on felons:

✅ Countries That Typically Allow Entry for Felons:

• Mexico (but customs agents can still deny entry at their discretion)
• Bahamas
• Jamaica
• Dominican Republic

❌ Countries That Often Deny Felons:

• Canada – Very strict. Anyone with a felony in the last 10 years may be denied.
• Australia – Denies entry for “substantial criminal records.”
• New Zealand – Refuses entry to anyone sentenced to 5+ years in prison.
• United Kingdom – Has strict rules, especially for violent or drug-related offenses.

Even one denied port can ruin your whole cruise. You could be detained or returned to the ship and possibly banned from the cruise line.

More Opportunities: Can a Felon Go to a Gun Range?

Tips for Felons Planning a Cruise

Here’s how to make your cruise dream a reality—without running into trouble.

Choose the Right Cruise

• Book a closed-loop cruise from the U.S.
• Stick with destinations that don’t require a passport or visa.

Check Your Legal Status

• Make sure you’re off parole or probation.
• Pay off any court fines or child support.

Get Legal Documents Ready

• Bring original birth certificate + government-issued ID.
• If you have a passport, make sure it’s valid.

Be Honest During Booking

• Some cruise lines ask about criminal records during the booking process.
• Lying can get you permanently banned.

Contact the Cruise Line

• Call customer service ahead of time and ask:
  • “Do you have any restrictions on passengers with felonies?”
  • “Does your ship dock in countries with entry restrictions?”

Can You Go on an International Cruise as a Felon?

Yes, but it’s complicated. You’ll need:

1. A valid U.S. passport
2. Entry permission from all port countries
3. No outstanding legal restrictions

Hire a lawyer or legal travel advisor who specializes in criminal rehabilitation and immigration if you’re uncertain.

Real-Life Scenarios

John, Age 35 – Non-Violent Felony (Credit Card Fraud)

• Cruise Type: Closed-loop from Miami to Bahamas
• Status: Finished probation 5 years ago
• Outcome: Boarded and enjoyed the cruise without issues

Amanda, Age 28 – Drug Felony (Possession with intent)

• Cruise Type: Open-loop to Canada
• Status: Recently off parole
• Outcome: Denied entry to Canada, missed two days of her cruise

Final Thoughts

Cruising with a felony on your record isn’t impossible—it just takes a little planning. Focus on U.S.-based closed-loop routes and avoid ports with tough entry laws like Canada or the UK. Always double-check your legal eligibility, travel documents, and cruise policies before you book. With the right prep, your vacation can be smooth sailing.

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