Most Cruise Lines Say No — And They Mean It
The straightforward reality is that almost all major cruise lines do not allow pets. This includes Royal Caribbean, MSC, Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess — the list goes on. Regardless of how small, quiet, or well-trained your pet might be, it won’t be permitted unless it’s a registered service animal.
Service dogs trained to assist with a recognised disability are generally allowed, but you’ll need documentation, advance approval, and must follow each line’s policy closely. Emotional support animals, however, are almost never accepted, even on US sailings.
But There Is One Major Exception: Cunard’s Queen Mary 2
If you’re determined to cruise with your pet, there’s really only one option: the Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s flagship and the only ocean liner with dedicated kennels onboard.
The supervised kennels on Deck 12 are serviced by a dedicated kennel master, and spaces are available on certain transatlantic sailings between New York and Southampton (and sometimes Hamburg). Only 24 kennel spaces exist, and they fill up quickly.
Expect to pay around $1,000 for a dog and $1,600 for a cat. Owners can visit their pets during set hours each day, and Cunard provides a walking area plus a classic red fire hydrant to help dogs feel at home. This option makes sense primarily for people using the QM2 to relocate across the Atlantic.
Travelling With a Service Dog
If you travel with a genuine service dog, most cruise lines will allow it onboard. However, it’s not automatic. Here are the necessary steps:
- Inform the cruise line early (ideally when booking)
- Submit documentation showing your dog’s training and purpose
- Provide your own food, supplies, and waste bags
- Be aware of port rules: not all countries allow animals ashore, so shore excursions might not be possible for your dog
Contact the cruise line directly to understand their exact process rather than relying on FAQs or online forums.
Other Options for Pet-Loving Travellers
For most people, cruising with a pet isn’t realistic. Consider these alternatives:
- Pet-friendly ferries (common between Ireland, the UK, and Europe)
- Train travel (often more flexible with pets)
- Road trips or campervan travel where your pet stays with you
- Some river cruises and small-ship adventures may have looser policies (the MS Normandie has been dog-friendly in the past)
Final Thoughts
In almost every case, you cannot take your pet on a cruise. The industry standard is a firm no, and that’s unlikely to change soon. Cruise ships are complex environments with food safety, health regulations, and the comfort of thousands of other passengers to consider.
However, if you’re planning a transatlantic trip and don’t mind planning ahead and paying a premium, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the exception to this rule. Book early — those 24 kennel spaces are among the most sought-after reservations in cruising.
For everyone else, a trusted pet-sitter or boarding kennel at home remains the most practical solution.